Sound card suggestions

[Splat88]

Before I go crazy with doing my own research I want to find out what everybody here suggests.

A friend of mine has a brand new dual core PC that he wants to turn into a DAW. What do you guys suggest for a cheap soundcard and preamp?

He only needs 2 audio inputs, and a preamp with phantom power. A midi input would be needed as well. What do you guys suggest?

 

[Wolfeman]

What about a Presonus Firebox?

 

[JBroll]

Audiophile 2496 ($90-$100) and a pair of ART Tube MPs (or one of the nicer two-channel ART things... just consider getting Tesla 12AX7s to switch out for the tube already there - after tube replacement $50 a piece) or a 1010LT.

Jeff

 

[Splat88]

Thanks guys. The Firebox looks like a great all-in-one unit.