Yes, you can aggregate the devices, so you could use one for input and the other for output...
With Pro Tools LE 8 the digidesign box is your audio interface so you need to go into the line-in or SPDI/F-in on the digidesign box from the Axe-Fx II. The Axe-Fx can be connected via USB to the computer for control but you don't record over the USB connection.
Things are simpler with Pro Tools 9 as it no longer requires a digidesign interface and the Axe-Fx II can be used as the audio interface.
You can upgrade from 8 to 9 for a pretty reasonable price -- one upgrade per existing digidesign interface serial number. Pro Tools 9 uses an iLok for licensing since it is no longer tied to a digidesign interface serial number. You can even keep using that 8.0 version with the digi interface after you upgrade to 9.0.
Darryl
Yes, you can aggregate the devices, so you could use one for input and the other for output...
Can't you just go into the Sound section of your System Preferences on your Mac after the Axe is plugged and choose your output and input? Then when you fire up PT it should automatically use those I/O's. And if not you should be able to choose the Axe in PT preferences.
If the Axe 2 can work as a preamp also other than spdif you can use the 4 ins that dont have preamps.
S/PDIF may be the preferred way to connect the Axe-Fx II to a 002 as it removes an unnecessary A/D and D/A step.
If the 002 is not adding any value then put it aside, upgrade to Pro Tools 9, and just use the Axe-Fx II as the interface. And probably importantly that should make tracking a dry and wet signal and reamping a lot easier - although you can also do that in other ways like using the FX-Loop out to send a dry analog-out to the 002.
Darryl
I thought analog was preferred over S/PDIF?
This will be my end goal. Will have to wait a little while before upgrading $$. Only downside is I would still need to use my -002R for mic's. I can't leave it connected then can I?
Just sell the 002R and buy an upgrade to PT9, and a nicer interface that does play nice.