The Mbox 2 has to be the best value in computer-based recording available today. Mbox 2 is a USB audio I/O so you don't need to install any cards into your computer (are you listening laptop users?) It has a simple MIDI I/O (1 In and 1 Out) It works with powerful Pro Tools LE software (probably the most supported software on the planet) Here's what you'll love about owning an Mbox: if you start a track on this Mbox/Pro Tools LE system, everything you've done will be compatible with the full-blown Pro Tools systems used by high-end studios. This means you can start a project at home and then go to a professional studio mix. USB powered audio I/O with 2 analog outputs, 48V phantom power, MIDI In & Out, S/PDIF digital I/O, headphone out with dedicated volume and dedicated studio monitor volume.