Tascam DS-M7.1: Is anyone still using this unit?

Just got one and I going through a second pass of the manual. Some questions though.



1. Can I use the third I/O,the one named Insert I/O as another input, i.e. non-insert? I'd like to monitor the main outs from the Console I/O , the outs from my HD2 stems recorder with the Track Recorder I/O and connect a consumer amp on the third input to check Blu-Ray mixes.



2. I will be going via TDIF from Digital 192s straight to the unit. And it would be ideal if I did not analog patch stereo outs from my 96 I/O to go to the Stereo Control analog inputs but stay in the digital domain instead. How can I maintain digital connectivity when working with stereo? Do I just feed the unit stereo material in L and R and select the downmix option on the DS to be LR as well?



3. Does anyone find any issues with 7.1, when you position the extra speakers to the LS RS norm, as opposed to the manual's guide to LC RC?



4. It is about time I bring a patch-bay or two in to the equation now. Do you guys reckon I'd be ok with TDIFs on the patch. Any crosstalk issues?