Since I'm always on the lookout to improve sounds, this thread caught me eye.

Unfortunately, I know next to nothing wrt hardware synths (and barely more than nothing wrt to software synths blush). So, at risk of hijacking this thread, I have a few basic questions about hardware synths (sound modules):

How exactly does a hardware sound module get hooked up to a PC? I'm presently using an external sound card with my Kawai VPC1. The external sound card is connected to my laptop (where BIAB resides) via a USB cable. Then two audio cables run from the external sound card to my mixer. From there I have a choice of using my headphones or studio monitors for output. With that sort of set-up, where in the chain does the hardware sound module go?

Ideally, I'm interested in two scenarios: a) First I'd like BIAB's backing tracks to use the sound module's patches, while I play along with my VPC (using separate VST software). And b) It would be great if I could also occasionally use one of the sound module's patches for the VPC1's output?

Are either/both of these possible? If so, how would the sound module have to connected to my current set-up?

Thanks!

Kawai VPC1 MIDI Controller; Asus A53E Laptop running Windows 7 - 64 bit; BIAB 2017 UltraPlusPak (upgraded from 2014 EverythingPak), running from Laptop's Hard Drive.