vcentral: hi. If 3 channels at one go is all you need, then I'd go with the Direct Pro (if they ever actually come out with the damn thing!). Aardvark's reputation is good, the Direct Pro's got built-in preamps (or one built-in preamp - I'd like to know which) and a software package to boot, if I'm not mistaken. This solves three problems at once: hardware (the soundcard), software, and preamps for mics. It's a really attractive package, and the only downside is they've been promising it for months now, and not actually coming up with the goods. I waited for a long time, and then got 'so tired, tired of waiting, tired of waiting for yo-o-o-u-u-u.'
That's why I asked you if they're actually selling it now. Also, surely you can get it for less than $590?