Hi folks!
 
Sorry for a little long question...
 

I use an external audio interface (Motu MK3 Ultralite Hybrid) with my desktop; I purchased it as a "good to have if I need to use it with a laptop" solution. However I have only used it in my home studio with a desktop computer. I realise that I don't need an external card and thus I am considering to maybe switch to a PCI-e card or similar. However, since the audio interface industry is a jungle, I am asking for some help here, as I don't know what to look for.
 
I run Windows 10 64 bit. Might swithc to Mac if Sonar get that rockin...
 
These are my needs:
- I only produce/mix ITB
- I should be able to record a condensator Mic (separate Mic Preamp?)
- I need to connect a hardware synth (Novation Bass Station II or Arturia Microbrute or similar)
- I need to be able to record my vinyls. Phono input (I have a small Phono Pre Amp)
 
I have no idea what solutions to go for. Should I go PCI-e? My Desktop has a Thundebolt connection (Focusrite Pre?)
If I consider a UAD-2 card, I could use their plugins (seem amazing), but as a "home producer" that might be over the top perhaps? I was considering the UAD Apollo Twin Solo (external USB), but is it possible to make the connection I need above? Maybe with some extra hardware?
 
Any help and tips are very much welcome:)
 
Thanks!
 

The Motu Ultralite MK3 Hybrid is a really nice unit.
 
I have one and it never leaves the desktop either. Is their any particular reason you think you need something different? I say this because it's really very hard to beat these units in performance and value, at their price point. You'd need to spend quite a bit more to outperform them, and you're simply replacing functionality that you already have.
 

Thanks for your reply Super G!
 
Well, the only "reason" might be that I was considering the speed of PCI-e cards. However, I could also go for a Thunderbolt card. Maybe you are right in terms of price and functionallity. I am a little interested in UAD plugins, but perhaps the normal native stuff is as good as those today...

I also have a MOTU ultralite MK3 - awesome unit!  low noise, clean sound.  It never leaves my studio - it's rack mounted and attached to a patch panel.
 
I have a small Roland duo capture for location recordings.  typically my needs don't exceed that many inputs.

Lynx has a really great PCI system - either 16 in/out AES/ADAT interface or their new E22 and 44 series with excellent converters built-in.
 
http://www.lynxstudio.com/news_press_detail.asp?i=158
 
above their release on latency (if that is your worry - their USB is really good too).  The E series is better spec'ed than their earlier converters, which were and are used in pro situations.  Since they are British, they might be cheaper than here in the States.

Thanks AT, will look into it:)

another happy motu ultralite user here.. not sure why you are wanting to change other than for changes sake?..