I was just looking into the same thing.
I've been thru a bunch of tools and gear and now I found from experience there's a lot to this software "matching up"....pc, ram, 32 bit, 64bit, plug-ins, screen layouts, etc..etc.. interface inputs and outputs.....24bit ability....yadayadayada
So the system your using is a key factor.
So many have Vista problems and pain and suffering it seems.
I'm still searching around and will check back here on your post.
I've been using a EMU 1820 for years and it works great with Kristal Audio Engine once finally online.
But I messed around, found the XP 32 bit is the easiest interface of pc and this unit. I actually went to XP 64bit and then due to numerous issues and plug-in problems, incompatibility, I went and bought a XP 32 bit CD and went back! what a mess that was!
My son has a Vista pc system. So IDK? I'd like him t get a decent USB that works with Kristal and others...maybe has a decent free software set.
Obviously 7 is the new Windows platform. I have no clue what is a good interface and recording software????
I've been real happy with my 1820 and XP 32bit setup using Kristal Audio Engine. It has phantom and decent preamps, and enough gain for a Shure 7.
Plenty of inputs.
But I feel its time to play with a USB and a different software....
Really for no reason than to mess around with something new...