Is there any advantage to replacing the typical PC audio card with a 24 bit/96kHz audio card from Echo, M-Audio, Digidesign, etc? Will this in any way improve the audio output from a NLE when output is to DV or VHS, assuming the source of most of the audio comes from the DV tape?

I'm planning to get something to make it easier to do Voice Over recordings, but don't know if a USB interface will work just as well as a dedicated PCI adapter. I don't need XLR or phantom power since I'll probably use a mixer to feed the card. Also, is additional software necessary to use either the PCI card or USB interface box? Most descriptions I've read of these products do not list included software.

If USB type is all I really need, would the M-Audio Audiosport Quattro be a good choice, or would it be just as easy to record to DV tape and import to the NLE.

Thanks for your input.

The external boxes avoid the noise that can get into a PCI card because of the computer environment.

DV audio is not effected unless you bring in external analog audio signals. Then the external box is a very good idea.

If you have a spare $500, Pro Tools makes a USB-connected external box with nice preamps, etc. Good mixing software too.

Mike, are you referring to the Digidesign Mbox w/Pro Tools LE? That is another one that was curious about. I saw it at Musiciansfriend for $449.