Hi,
Yes latency. You can already do this with a host app like Cubase, reaper, etc in a live setting as long as your system is fast enough.

Thanks Chris

Totalmix would then need to run these VST's on its FPGA, and while they are getting more powerful, I doubt it could run a few x86 VST's in any type of emulation mode and have any power leftover for anything else.  Or, you would still need a native "host" x86 compliment to Totalmix's internal processing, and you are back to using ASIO to get to/from the Kernel to Totalmix (and the physical I/O)...

I'd have to assume the new TM-FX DSP is succinctly coded "natively" to run on the FPGA (not ported from x86 code or running in emulation) - and were likely designed from day one to be as efficient as possible.  VST/RTAS on the other hand, has access to an i7's worth of DSP (that is a LOT of power!), so the coding is generally more sloppy and less optimized/tight...

Use a fast PC, use low-latency plug-ins in a descent host, and run your ASIO driver as low as possible.  You will have all of this and more.  That is my M.O. 24/7/365 (or 24/7/366 for our Leap Day coming up tomorrow!!! )

I don't thihk RME wants to open that can-o-worms!  Writing a DAW from the ground up is worlds different from writing solid drivers and little applets - they'd likely need to triple their software staff (or more) and then deal with all kinds of BS they currently avoid...

I wouldn't be holding my breath for an RME DAW.  RME & Steinberg seem to be pretty solid over here (no major complaints on usability or stability)...