Building new studio - Rosetta 200 converter questions

[audiofx]

After a few years interning in a large studio, I'm going to build my own room for my own projects. The studio I interned at had Pro Tools HD but everything else was outboard. My setup will be ITB mixing with plugs and a high end vocal chain. I've never actually used a converter so I have a few questions.

My first purchase is probably going to be a Rosetta 200. I'm still up in the air about my recording setup. I will either go Pro Tools M-Powered or get Nuendo to go with an older model Echo Layla 24 that I have.

First question, since I'm using the Rosetta for AD/DA, does it matter the quality of my sound card since I will be bypassing its converters anyways? Can I get a lower end M-Audio card (Delta series perhaps) and get the same results as if I used my Echo card or even a Digi002?

Also, where does the Rosetta sit in the recording chain? I will be doing Hip Hop so I need to record mono vocals and will be getting the music off MPC, Triton, VST (seperate computer) etc.. Do I go into the Rosetta first, then SPDIF to soundcard? I will be getting a high end preamp/compressor combo for the vocals. Do I just take line level out of my instruments into the Analog In of the Rosetta? Or is there another piece of gear I need? Do I just use a 1/4" to XLR cable?

I understand I will only be able to record 2 tracks at a time from my instruments.

Will I have any trouble tracking a mono signal (vocals) through either the left of right Analog Ins?


And.... what is the MIDI in/outs used for? Syncing with other converters?

Thanks for any help