Best Audio Interface under $800-$850

[apex]

As a result of my thread in the Fantom G forum and a conversation with a sales rep at Guitar Center about my studio connections

I've decided to purchase an audio interface for my home studio and live set up.

What's the best one in this price range. I need multiple inputs (not just two). I need to be able to connect at least 3 keyboards and possible 3 or 4 mics. I'd love to be able to record multiple inputs into my DAW at one time and also be able to use the interface in standalone mode (meaning without a computer... in a live situation)

Thanks for any and all help.

Also (I'm starting with units in this price range (for a new unit), but hope to be able to get one used in the $600 range.)

Thanks

[Septimo]

under 500.. And everything you need.. Including Stand alone..

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DvZInKuFYxk[/youtube]

Very nice..

Info..

http://www.focusrite.com/us/products/au ... ire_pro_40

Sweetwater info and reviews..

http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/SaffirePro40/

[turbopage]

Roland Octa Capture

[apex]

Septimo if you like the Saffire Pro 40 for $500... then what do you think about this.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Focusrite-Liquid-Saffire-56-Audio-F...

OR this

http://cgi.ebay.com/M-AUDIO-PROFIRE-2626-INTERFACE-/170...

Thanks in advance

[Septimo]

Honestly I'd probably go with the 56 just because of the Liquid pre's built in it.. I really like that one... The M-audio is also nice but I'm the type that if I'm gonna spend money, I'm gonna get the best one I can afford so there are no regrets later on.. I'd stick with either the 40 or the 56, but lean heavily towards the 56 especially if money is not an issue.. But either is a winner..


[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RuVOYrjeOBw[/youtube]

[apex]

I saw that video. they seem real nice. only thing (that I DON"T like) about the 56 is that (if it even is rackable, ) it seems to take up 2u rack spaces.... (is that a true estimate?)

So if I can get it for $600 or so, you'd jump on that?

so 2 liquids are better than 8 octanes? (preamps?)

I saw the 40 for like a little over $300... (i guess that's a steal aint it?)
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3004...

I'm like you too man. I want the best I can buy RIGHT NOW. what about expandability.... with the 56. I really think that I like that 56 alot. I also don't like the fact that outputs 7-8 are tied to headphone out 1 and outputs 9-10 are tied to headphone 2. (that kinda takes away from how many different mix outputs you can have.)

I think I've kinda narrowed it down to the 40, 56, presonus firestudio TUBE (those tubes seem like a nice option), or the profire 2626.

You're saying that the 56 is the best of those? (it's regular price is $1000).... it's certainly the most expensive of all the options.

[apex]

you guys didn't forget about me did you? LOL