Can someone recommend a good studio soundcard?

I'm currently using my 4K with Live 4 and Reason 2.5. I'm in the process of building a new computer from scratch which will be mostly used to produce my music.

I need some advice on a good pro quality soundcard to get.

These are some of the specs that are most important to me:
1. Low, low latency is a must
2. Must have multiple analog I/O
3. Midi I/O
4. Mic/line preamps standard
5. S/PDIF

Also should I get an internal soundcard or an external interface? USB or Firewire?

I appreciate any feedback guys. Thanks!

You should try looking into the motu 828mk1or 2 great soundcard for studio or portable. It has all the things that you have on your list of wants and it's firewire.

digi02 rack, if you can afford it, heard one in action the other day, great quality for the mo.. also if you are upgrading your pc make sure it's big enugh to run Stylus RMX (2g ram).. trust me, you'll wanna run it!!, its incredible!..

Thanks for the reply guys.

That Digi unit is way above my spending limit for a soundcard but that Motu 828mk2 might fit the bill though. I'll keep looking for some better options in the mean time.

http://www.audioamigo.com/cport.html

http://www.staudio.com/products/dsp2000.html

$399.00



Hoontech/STAudio
DSP2000 C-Port sound card

Out box with 8 I/O
2 Mic Pre amps
SPDIF

I've had this card for 3 years.
No problems.

get a layla20 off ebay. Good card and not to expensive

I think the Motu 828MKII is an all around better option for me. Not only can you control all the settings by way of the computer software GUI but you can also operates the MK828II as a stand-alone mixer, with no computer required. Every 828mkII setting can be accessed from the front panel control and backlit LCD.
It's a bit pricier than than the DSP2000 C-Port but I think for the features that the 828MKII has to offer, it'll be well worth it in the long run.