What to put between mic and pc?

[cracked lid]

So I'm shopping around for equipment and have run into way too many options. I'm looking for advice on what to stick between a microphone and my computer.
I currently have the original (read"crappy") sound card on my pc, but will be replacing it and this is partly what I need advice on. I also need to get a mic preamp.

I will be using it to record acoustic guitar and vocals.

My requirements:
Budget $300-400. I'll be spending about an equivalent amount on microphones.

I would like to do stereo recording, so will need 2 xlr mic inputs, 4 would be better, and phantom power as I will be using condensor mics. Not sure about the different phantom power voltage requirements of mics.

I also want to be able to monitor previously recorded tracks along with the current track being recorded.

24/96 capable

Would USB elliminate the necessity of a sound card upgrade? I like the idea of USB, but have read about more than a few people having problems.

So that's basically it: preamp and a soundcard or USB device. What ones will do most of what I want within my budget?

Thanks for the help, the dopes at Guitar Center are useless.

 

[Gidge]

i wouldnt go USB unless you absolutely had to.......

Id go with a Delta 1010lt soundcard $249 and a Spirit Folio Notepad mixer $149......

the Delta has 8 inputs with preamps on 2 of them, though they dont have phantom....it also has midi i/o as well as s/pdif i/o......

the mixer has 4 of its channels with phantom powered preamps......

so you'll be in business for $400......

 

[Gidge]

http://www.soundcraft.com/product_sheet.asp?product_id=1

http://www.midiman.com/index.php?do=products.main&ID=2b0aae232aeed5529a4916b0c8c33c4b