Thanks for everyone's replies here.

Freddy, your Delta 1010 rack setup sounds mighty impressive, but I'm looking for a small footprint lightweight solution as well.

It definitely sounds like Firewire is the way to go, though I don't have a clear understanding WHY it's better than USB, as the transfer speed rate specs look (on paper) to be close to the same. Can you guys provide a reason (in addition to the reported stability issues) why firewire is preferred over usb for PC music recording production? Does Firewire offer more bandwidth and/or provide a better method of data transfer as well?

Manuel (Mdorantes): My recording needs are pretty simple, mostly needing only to record one audio track at a time (possibly 2 or 3 max) along with midi tracks recorded on the Yamaha Tyros. Probably 2-in and 4 outs would do, but having 4-ins and 4-6 outs would allow for growth & expansion. My budget is also limited to $400 (and less if possible). Manuel: does the Lexicon Omega include direct monitoring (with efx) with near zero latency, because I need to monitor both recorded tracks and track I'm recording (singing) live (along with hearing my vocal efx) as well.

Vquestor, the Presonus Firebox looks like another interesting option as well. Curious how the M-Audio FireWire 410, PreSonus Firebox, and the Lexicon Omega (with Lexicon efx processor) match up with each other. I do notice the Lexicon Omega is about $100 cheaper than the other two.

Roel, I'm Really sorry to hear that Quillermo (Willum) has taken ill, and hope he is feeling well soon. Please send him my best regards. In the meantime, thank you for informing me that Guillermo is using an AP2496. Problem is that I don't recognize that brand(?). Please provide the specific brand and model number it is.

I seem inclined to go with the M-Audio for it's low latency software monitoring & near zero latency hardware monitoring (with efx) features, and the "Firewire 410" in particular because it includes the added bonus of 2 phantom powered XLR mic direct inputs, and for the advantages of Firewire (wider bandwidth?). I had seriously considered getting another PCI soundcard for it's low latency potential, but figured an outboard unit affords quieter noise isolation from the internal PC fan(s) and flexibility to use with a laptop PC as well. If there are better features on the Lexicon Omega or Presonus Firebox to consider I'm certainly willing to take another look. Please advise. Thanks again for your input.

Scott

[This message has been edited by Scottyee (edited 05-19-2005).]