Although I have no personal experience with m-audio product, I too have heard good things about them. Regardless of how you record a sound, you can never get too good of a mic or pre. Invest your money in good gear, and you won't have to buy the right stuff later. Computers and soundcards are always getting replaced by the latest and greatest. A good mic and pre is virtually timeless, and obsolescence is not a concern.

What mic pre and mic would you recommend??

I would gladly reccomend a pre, but I don't know your budget. There are a number of ways to go that are quite acceptable. Personally, I have a liking for avalon. Choosing gear is always something you should do with your ears. You can ask questions in the sebatron forum, and then listen to a machine if you like what you hear These machines are lower priced and may be attractive to you, if you are budget conscious. Also some good brands to try(not at all inexpensive) are focusrite, manley, and amek.
I really think that it would be better to use a half decent soundboard for a pre, until you could save up for something really great. Not that these pres are bad, lower priced pres are arguably better in some situations, but just because you don't have one doesn't mean you can't make a good recording.

Check out the best of the best, and save your money for the one you like the most. Above all use your ears. That's my advice.