Aardvark Direct Pro 24/96 users: no way to use outboard gear??

[photoresistor]

I know that the unit doesnt have inserts so I'm guessing that I can't use the Aardvark's pre-amps then. However if I were to get an external pre-amp and then go into say a compressor.... could I then hook up the compressor to the aardvark?

If I connect to the Aardvark with a 1/4" cord from the compressor and set the gain to zero is that effectively bypassing the pres? (or are there even pres for 1/4" inputs?)

thanks