That's a sound blaster right? Don't get a sound card, get an audio interface. If you want a desk top I would recommend the M-Audio Delta 1010LT. Because it is a PCI card you aren't going to have any USB/Firwire related connectivity problems. And get an Octopod or other bank of 8 pre amps to accommodate the line inputs on the Delta.

For your computer two fast SATA drives. One for OS and software. One for recorded tracks. Windows XP if you can get it is recommended, but Vista seems to have less and less problems as time progresses. As much memory as your OS can handle. Quad core may be over kill unless you want to use several virtual synths and cabinet sims. Even then, make sure your DAW software supports it. Many support only one processor, and others are dual core.

Software, it's really all about work flow.

I want to go with Sonar because I was jamming with some friends a while ago, recording with it. And when he hit the playback button it sounded EXACTLY as if we were playing.

Give your friend some props. This is most likely due to good microphone setup, well adjusted tracking levels, and good monitors. The software will have almost nothing to do with this. At that point it is bits in equals bits out. When you start editing and mixing is when the software really comes into play.

Forget the Soundblaster. Either build a gaming computer, or a dedicated recording computer. Don't muck up your recording computer with other garbage.

Settle on your OS first. (OK..you settled on Windows. XP, Vista??) Then decide what interface. Then, research what requirements that interface needs, and build your computer around that. Some things don't play well with others...such as certain MB or FireWire chipsets, etc., with certain audio hardware.

You may find that saving money from not installing a quad-core (if you may not need it) may leave money for more RAM, mics, cables, software...etc.

Nothing wrong with Sonar.

Kapt.Krunch

Everything the others have said, plus the advice not to get an Mbox unless external factors are forcing you down the ProTools route. Even then, you only get 2 mic channels with an Mbox where you (very reasonably) said you need at least 4.

Go for a multi-channel FireWire audio interface. Use the search facility on this site to read about the various makes and their facilities, quality and options. Come back here with a shortlist and we will give opinions.

Are the Fatality soundcard and Mbox even compatimable?

When you build this box Djacobs, keep your future in mind. USB and firewire ports are sometimes not part of the motherboard for a reason..it makes the board less costly and then you have to purchase more cards!!!!

Screw the desktop machine. Get yourself a mid-level laptop. You're going to want to take it out of the house at some point. Desktops don't travel well. Make sure it has a FireWire port. Besides, they are generally quieter than desktop machines. We're not talking about playing games here. We're talking about a working computer that's going to work for you. Those don't need to be the fastest blah blah blah blah.

Then you get yourself one of those 8 microphone input external audio interfaces like the Presonus units. It comes with software you already like. Then you're on your way. That is, if you're serious about recording?

Think recording not games
Ms. Remy Ann David

dont forget a pop filter for your LDC!

Thanks for the replies! Sound advise indeed! Ill definately be using XP, and am content with a desktop. I wont have much need for travelling with a laptop, unless I also have my engine tuning software setup with it (Apexi Power fc+Commander) But sounds like I should have a laptop dedicated for that as well.

Thanks for the suggestions, I will research them all.

But a Presonus FP10 and you're good to go. Research a bit before you buy mics. If you dont want to spend $500 on an interface just yet, I guess you could buy a cheap mixer and a behringer uca202 usb interface. That was my old setup. The presonus interface it definitely a great little device though.