i've already written how i'm working right now some threads ago, anyway: i'm actually working with ca+tdm (2408mk1 <-> 96+adatbridge) and i'm really happy, i have abandoned dtdm, exstdm and tdm audio tracks. i use tdm as a 24in/out mixer, with his plugs. so (coreaudio instruments and audiotrakcs)--->(tdm mixing+live inputs for external machines+premastering)--->(core audio track for bounce) even bounces in tdm have problems, that's why i have to reroute for the final bounce. many advantages working in this way: 1-i can use solo on audio tracks cause i solo inside core audio, tdm solo is bugged in LP8. 2-no stereo splitted files anymore!! 3-i can use audiounit on live inputs (or any aux/premaster/master)!! (that is a great thing for tdm users, while it looks normal to other users). 4-i have the option to use a digital connection for standard mac out, it uses adat 1-2, i've disconnected the minijack finally!! on the bad side i have to play a bit with time adjusters and i have only 24 in/out from core audio to tdm, that is like having 3esb but we have to consider that i'm using audio tracks also in ca. i have a track right now i'm using 17 core outs, 5 mono sounds + 6 stereo, i still have 7 out to use.. when i'm about to full the output i will group some sounds that doesn't need much fx, or i just use fx in core audio and go to a clean tdm input, like a subgroup. this is really personal but i do not work a lot with audio tracks.. i mostly use VIs and few external machines, and this configuration just fill my needs. Ciao! "erockerboy" <erockerboy@yahoo.com> wrote: > Ricky - I read your post below with much interest. I have found it incredibly frustrating to do anything in Logic involving sidechaining, parallel compression, snare triggers from EXS, etc - basically any of the "normal" techniques I would reach for in the "analog mix world" to make my drums sound fatter. The unpredictable "timing slop" between the virtual instruments, CoreAudio and DAE tracks makes these techniques essentially useless. How do you work around this? Do you bounce / print everything? Are you no longer using DAE at all? Thanks for any tips!!