Tube processors

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I have been reading for quite some time about tubes and how they really add to the sound quality of your tracks and was considering picking up one. But Im still learning the whole studio process and dont exactly know where it would go in the chain. From what I see most dont have that many ins and outs. Dont quite know how to use one. I know it seems like a dumb question for some of you but you gotta learn some how I guess. I started digital and have worked digital the whole time producing so I have a bit of a different concept.

The only ways I could figure to use it would be...

1) Like I use my sherman filter bank.
I route its in and out through my Motu 828 MKII and send the audio to that channel from one of my synths...but the catch is that I can only use one synth at a time and have to record them. Not all live.
2) or I could physically patch the cables from one synth to the tube every time. Which is just plan stupid.

How do you guys do it? Can someone guide me to a better solution?
Thanks a ton!
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