Hi!
We have an old Allen&Heath 8-Bus split-console. We connected the first 12 Channels Direct out and the 8 buses connected to MOTU-Hardware inputs and up to 36 outputs feeding the 32 tape returns.(?)

Works fine, if you have a standard setup for Drums, Bass and Vocal. Perfect for tracking musicians live. We still have enough free outputs for the overdubs.

My working order :

mic --> standalone preamp --> multitrack --> mixing console.

I had to invest in 32 fancy preamps, but it rocks bottom. Also come in handy when tracking live music. Just take the preamps with the multitrackers and off you go in your 2CV. Yehhaaa...