Soundcard or USB Connection?
 

which one is better... if i get a nice Creative Labs soundcard for my mic >pre amp to get plugged into, or i buy a pre amp that connects to the USB port.

OK 1st off why would a Pre amp connect to your USB. 2nd Ive heard of some kinda fucked up shit like this before. Ok what a Pre Amp is supose to go before your mixer. but you can hook it up to your sound card. now I think your talkin about a midi interface of some kind that hooks up to your USB. I dont think Ive seen a Pre Amp that goes into usb. not a real pre amp anyways. show me what you plan on buying

^um actually most REAL ones do go into usb or firewire..

such as the Maudio mobile Pre / The Mbox / and The digi 002 (firewire)

i thought u was gonna copp an 002, and u dont know it conects through firewire?

One

usb
 

try the m-audio preamps. those are nice. I don't like the soundcards on cpu.
If you have a condenser mic you wont be able to apply phantom power.
It's nice to have a good gain stage for optimal levels.
Mic pres boost mic level to line level so youre mixer gets good signal.fyi