Re: Using an external device on a channel insert
With difficulty is the official answer at the moment. ADAT output is available on the S16 but there is no current method for digital input beyond AES50 and the USB/FireWire.
Connecting a $3000+ eight channel auto mixer to a sub $3000 isn't something many people will want to do.
In the future there will be more processing options with AES50 (e.g. Waves), USB/FiWi (software effects running on PC etc.) and more features in the x32 software.
Since the x32 has DCAs it's possible that Behringer could create a special DCA "channel" that implements an auto mixer. This would be the neatest and cheapest option or users. If you want it then suggest it to Behringer.
The next neatest option is a Dugan card for the x32 (like the Yamaha one) but I expect the price might put people off - you could suggest this to Dugan. Having just had a look at he photo of the Dugan/ Yamaha board I can confirm the x32 would have more than enough processing power.
Behringer may well announce some new products like an all digital version of the s16 (AES50-ADAT) but I wouldn't hold my breath. It's more likely behringer will focus heir efforts on progress in features than spend time to enable the use of legacy products/interfaces from other manufacturers. Just my opinion - I have no knowledge of Behringer's plans.
Al
