When you say DAW outputs do you mean n series direct out --> DAW or
DAW--> n Channel input?

Either way : From page 15 of the manual
n Series Manual


[REC] switch and [ST] switch
These switches route the signal to the specified
buses. Turn the [ST] switch on (the LED lights up) to
route the channel signal to the stereo L/R buses.
Turn the [REC] switch on to route the channel signal
to the REC (L/R) buses.


So you have a choice.

The direct out are always on PLUS you have the REC Bus and ST Bus selectable per channel

An example of use is a live recording of a small group. Direct out (Digital) to the Main ST to Front OF House and Aux out for monitor mix. Since the Direct outs are pre fader any change in the FOH or Monitor mix would not effect the recording.

Using the REC or ST bus is also available post fader

The n12 has 16 IN/Outs over 1394
the n8 has 12 In/Outs



Hope this helps