Need Laptop Soundcard suggestions.

[bdunard]

I am going to be turning a P3 laptop into a mobile B4 player. I will need at least a stereo audio out and a midi input. I can use Firewire or the PCM slot.

[GearGuy]

Use USB for MIDI interface. RME makes the best drivers out there... period. Going with their PCM/CIA "Cardbus" and their "Multiface" will not be cheap, but it will give you stability which is import for live situations, right? RME really shine with low latency drivers for softsynths, which will be great since your laptop seems to be older (P3)

After that, the usual suspects would follow if price is a concern... 828MK2, etc. I say beware of M-Audio, their drivers have not been the best in the past...

[bdunard]

So you are saying use the usb just for midi and then use the PCM/CIA slot for audio and not use the firewire? I used to own a delta 1010 and didn't have any problems I just figured it would be good for this situation (M-audio 410). Interesting. The only other thing I will need is a set of converters. What about the USB for midi and then use and echo indigo for sound. I just don't want to sink much more that $400 into the soundcard thing for this. I know the cost vs performance thing is always in effect but I figured I could do this for less than $400. What USB to Midi would you recommend if I understand what you are saying.