I'm lookiing to upgrade from Creative Audigys and buy the new Layla 3G card.
Also want to get into 5.1 mixing in Vegas. Will the Layla 3G allow me to connect each individual channel to the M-Audio LX4 5.1 speaker set?
I imagine if you got at least 6 outputs, you could use this configuration... Maybe have a look at the Layla's GUI and output connectors to get a better idea?
yes, you can connect the Layla directly to each channel of the LX4 system. This is exactly what we used on the Singapore/Sydney tour, and on part of the US VASST tour.
Layla has it's own Soft Mixer that allows you to control levels overall to the speaks, in addition to the 8 inputs for preamp'd sources. You can also buy an optional Cardbus card that will allow you to use the Layla with a laptop.
Just another thought or option: I had used the MOTU 828mkII for about one year via firewire, and I NEVER had a problem. And to answer another question of yours, it does have 2 xlr inputs as well with phantom power. I was using this in conjunction with a Windows XP P4 system.
Best of luck to you in your decision and purchase. I hope this is helpful.