I see what you mean : you want, for example, a core for the fader and encoder, and a core for buttons? well, you have to set up the LC clone apps for that : make 2 firmware, and remove what you don’t want : for example, for a core with just fader and enc, remove the button array (or some part).
With the MIDIbox Link concept you can cascade as much MIDIboxes as you want - the problem is the protocol defined by Mackie. It knows only “one channel” for transfering the control data. Programs like Logic Audio, Cubase, etc. are searching for one unit per port only, they are not prepared for handling more than one unit with a single MIDI In.
So you see: it’s software limited, but not by MIDIbox… no chance for a workaround, unless you would ask the big companies for help (but we all know the update policy of them :-/)
However, if you see no chance to add additional MIDI In/Outs to your computer (Btw.: the MBHP_USB interface provides two In/Out ports), you can still use the linked boxes as generic controller.
I 've thought of so many things to do with MIOS, a graphic display, many buttons and POD but need to learn assembly first… I’l also need a hell lot of spare time!..