Anyone here have an experience (and/or recommendations) re: OUTBOARD Audio Soundcard-Midi interface units like:

M-Audio: FireWire Audiophile

M-Audio: FireWire 410

M-Audio: Audiophile USB

I realize that outboard soundcard/midi interfaces can suffer slightly more latency than an internal PCI soundcard does, but the benefits include: flexibility for use on both a desktop & laptop PC, as well as less noise potentially entering the soundcard from a desktop PC's internal fans.

To offset potential latency problems, M-Audio outboard Audio Soundcard/Midi interface devices include a special 'direct monitoring' feature. Anyone have any experience using that or know how that works?

MY PC includes both USB 2.0 & Firewire ports. Which provides the best results in an external Audio Soundcard/Midi interface: Firewire or USB 2.0?

Thanks in advance for advice & recommendations.

Scott