I use a Delta 44 PCI with the breakout box.
The Delta 44 PCI is a surprisingly good sound card for the money. It has received accolades from MI professionals as a great cost/performance card. The breakout box is nice in that is resides outside the computer case and can be placed several feet away from the computer if necessary. The idea of the breakout box is to lessen any interference from all the electrical signal/noise inside the computer.
The Delta 44 uses Asio Drivers and features 24bit/96kHz full duplex audio capability. In fact the Delta 44 is the only sound card sold at zzounds.com and it is one of the only sound cards that Guitar Center handles too.
Having said that, I have looked for an upgrade solution to my Delta 44 but haven't really come across anything that I thought would be a significant improvement over the Delta 44.
PS: If anybody knows of some high end sound cards that are absolutely fabulous and would blow the Delta 44 out of the water let me and Donny know.
I am open to suggestions.
>> Have manufacturers given up on making high-end PCI sound cards? Is it because they realize there is more profit from selling standalone Hardware DAWS from the likes of Tascam, Roland, Yamaha, Korg, etc. etc.? That's my guess.. Even M-Audio has a hardware DAW and it sells for around $1,500.
Best,
Mike