I replaced my Rosetta with an AD16X, and was able to forego a DA by using advanced routing mode which gave me an additional 16digital outs to the 16analog ins. I have a Yahama DM1000 so I'm able to use the DAs from that to monitor the outputs of the AD16x. So if you have any digital mixer it's a good way to go.
Try recording through a channel WITH plugins, printing that track. I think that might be an advantage of the Symphony...kinda like PTHD, not relegating plugins to mixdown, but being able to actually use them like hardware.
I went with the Symphony because I wanted the SBUS feature. I'm setting up my new MacPro now, and will hook up my old Quad G5 direct from symphony card to symphony card. And I'm actually excited!