Audio interface with individually assignable inputs/outputs
Hey folks, more of a general production gear question, but I use FL so I figured I'd ask here.
After caving to my GAS I've amassed a few outboard synths and pedals that I'd like to route through FL. I currently use a (very well loved) Mackie Big Knob Studio+ (6 in (2 mic preamps + 2 stereo ins) / 3 stereo outs) I picked up at an estate sale 5 or so years ago, but when I try to assign different ins/outs in the mixer I only have the mic inputs (which are each mono, or both as stereo):
and 2 options for outs, but as far as I can tell from messing around, I can't route them out and then back in
In most places I've rented studio time I've noticed they have tonnes of options for ins/outs:, but they also have $10k interfaces maybe find a picture of this?
But they also have $10k interfaces, do I just need a dedicated interface like a focusrite vs the more "monitor controller" that I have with the big knob?
Ideally I want to be able to route an external synth into a mixer track in FL, use some software fx, route it back out to an outboard pedal, and then back into fl for more processing.
Is this possible on a cheap-ish ( <$1k) interface?
I've tried looking online but I must not be searching for the right keywords because I can't get any straight answers.
Posted Dec 8, 2025, 5:37 PM UTC