Whatever you do don't go out and buy a soundblaster live...I've learned the hard way that there is much better equipment out there for just about the same price...A lot of people talk about he Event/Echo Cards(or now some variation of the sort)--Gina/layla...I've heard Aardvark is pretty good. Seen one or two of those Yamaha goodies...All in all I really do think it depends on what your intentions are now and for the future...Can't give you much idea about the specs but I can say look for something that fits you and try to buy it ONCE...Everytime you turn another piece of expensive equipment is spinning your name..
