Hello,

I'd like to start using my computer for multi-track recording. I've been looking at various hardware solutions and I'd like to bounce a few ideas off of people. I'm sort of on a budget (aren't we all?)

1st idea: M-Audio 66 (or a used M-Audio 44).

2nd idea: SoundBlaster Audigy Platinum with some sort of digital outboard mixer.

3rd idea: Tascam US-428.

I would like to use Cakewalk SONAR for recording. I know the Tascam doesn't support this (yet), but it comes with a special version of Cubasis which I guess would work ok.
With the Audigy and mixer, I know I need a digitial mixer, but what features should I look for? Something that sends multiple channels over either the S/PDIF or the optical connector I would think. Or is that not even possible?

If anyone has used/seen any or all of these devices, feedback would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Bill