The best sound interface below $300

Audiophile 2496 is an affordable and very reliable card. If you are into music and looking for a way to start computer recording which "everyone is talking about..." Go get an audiophile 2496 first. The sound quality blows sb live and audigy away. Non musicians, you may wonder what am I gonna do with just two RCA inputs and outputs, where are the mic input, headphone socket.....etc. Remember this is not a cheap everyday soundcard, this is a semi professional audio interface specially designed for recording music and midi (Yes it is a midi interface too) Even it has a digital SPDIF in/out. So for regular listeners and gamers, better get an Audigy.
The drivers are rock solid, no problems at all and has no conflicts with Creative drivers, Yes, you can use both 2496 and your existing soundblaster card in the same computer. Goes upto 24bit 96 Khz and the control panel is very ease of use.
IF you have a computer at home and if you have a keyboard or, guitar, you can turn your computer into a real good home studio with just this one card. Trust me! they are awesome.
- Jeyan J