Hi

I'm considering going back to an RME interface - perhaps a UFX or 802 - after using a mixing desk

One thing I'd like to clarify is how I can use external FX units and pedals

I wish to track my synths thru the unit AND apply FX via send/return - I'm assuming I'd need to output the signal to the unit then physically bring it back into one of the RME inputs

I also wish to be able to apply the hardware FX to audio within the DAW - I use Ableton and could add an 'External FX' plugin to achieve this I guess

From a totalmix point of view, can I send groups of synths inputs to an FX output and create some kind of virtual send/return (if that makes sense)?