I'm using AV Linux and I'm very happy with it. Like many AV Linux users, the main reason is to provide a relatively problem free platform for Ardour, the Linux digital audio workstation, as many general purpose distributions are not properly set up for it.

I don't know what the "32 channels" issue is. If Jack is showing you 322 inputs and 32 oputputs, you must have 32 channels in your hardware somewhere and Jack in any any distro will see them.

If AV Linux is showing the same sound devices in a different order, it may be that Jack is not using your mixer as the default device and you need to edit a config file to change the priorities. I can't remember the details but it's documented in many places.

There's an AV Linux forum at http://www.remastersys.com/forums/ and it's worth signing up there. You'll find everybody (including Glen MacArthur, the creator of AV Linux) responsive, friendly and helpful.

Anahata