It seems like external sound cards are the new trend as initally evindenced by the highly succesful & highly rated firewire MOTU 828 audio interface box. The BIG advantage of an external sound card is that is eliminates computer noise from getting in the way with the sound. The specs of the Extigy card look impressive, but I'm just wondering if there would be any problems with speed (latency) when using a USB interface. I'm looking forward to checking this out at NAMM. Now I realize WHY I compiled a listing of the exhibit booths I don't want to miss.