I use a 12 channel analog mixer (RAMSA WR-4412) to feed a 16 channel interface that cost $300. 24 channel versions of it are currently on Ebay for $500. Each channel has a direct out feeding the interface, so I basically use it as 12 clean preamps on the input side. Feed it 4 outputs for 2 sets of monitors. Headphone outs are run direct to a 4 channel headphone amp.
Setup for recording is far faster than crawling around the rack to plug in stuff, and setting record and monitor levels is a cinch. If it died I'd buy another immediately. I also like having a quick way to mute all the outputs should some hugely loud noise happen.
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