I was wondering when using sonar platinum what audio drive should i be using? i have a option off MMe, WDM and ASIO im not usind a audio interface yet just the sound card in my computer, but next week ill be buying one! also what advantages are there to using a good external audio interface? i dont record real instruments as i only make house/trance so is it still a good idea to get one? 
thanks.......

A good external audio interface is usually used for three reasons.

1. To lower latency (both on software synths and audio monitored via the DAW) by using ASIO drivers.
2. To get better preamps and convertors than a PC comes with, and usually a much lower noise floor, especially if recording audio.
3. To get more inputs/outputs so more stuff can be connected.

If you're doing everything in the computer, then so long as the delay between playing a note on a MIDI controller and the software emitting the sound isn't a problem for you then you might be able to manage with just the PC's onboard sound. Quite a lot of people do that. Though an external interface will let you route seperate headphone and monitor outputs which can be very useful.

If the delay is a problem Sonar's WASAPI mode driver might help with that, or WDM is worth trying.

How you're working now might not be how you want to work in the future - if you add hardware instruments for example then you will need a decent interface. One bit of advice therefore is to think ahead. However many inputs and outputs you need now you're quite possibly going to want more later on and it's generally cheaper to buy an interface with more inputs once than to buy a small one and then have to upgrade it later.

Its always good to have a good audio interface. The driver to use is the one the works best with your hardware.  Most people use ASIO.  The reason is it often is the one with the lowest latency.  If you see ASIO for your internal audio chip its likely one based on ASIO4All a poor choice. 
 
Spend a little money on a good solid audio interface say a USB 2 one and you will get good drivers plus a better sound. Low noise with low distortion and the ability to add a good mic to the setup with XLR inputs. 
 
A good sound card can be as little as $99. 
 
 

Thanks guys! im using ASIO as it giving me the best results atm but as you pointed out a good audio interface for the future is something i must look into so ive decided to buy one. So whats a good one to go for and what features should i be looking for? There is one at my local music store on special called the Focusrite scarlett 2i4 and comes with pro tools and abelton live not that i need more software as i own abelton live 9
Thanks......
 

I own the Focusrite 6i6 2nd gen which you can distinct by the logo color. 2nd gen is silver where as the 1st gen is black. My latency with VIs is around 8.6ms (RTL), it also came with 2 sets of Addictive Keys plus some really nice plugins. So overall I've been very happy with the unit. As far as features you need to ask yourself many questions.
Do you need mobility or want a locked in unit?
How many inputs vs outputs do you need?  
What type of connection do you want to use (USB/Firewire etc...)?
Do you need a word clock?
How many internal headphone jacks would you like (I like 2 so I can mix with others)?


These just a few questions as examples. 
 
 

coltpeacemaker
There is one at my local music store on special called the Focusrite scarlett 2i4
 

I highly recommend it.
Good mic pres, good solid construction, good drivers (always being updated).
You can get them used for under 100 bucks. so don't get taken for a ride by a small local shop.
They are as low as 169 $ new at GC. So there's a cross reference on price.
 
Depending on your needs, the Focusrite solo is 99 $ new as well.
But 2 mic pres' and the dual stereo outputs, pad button on the 214 is worth the extra dough.
 
I have the 18I8 and love it. before that I had a Focusrite usb 4 and also a VS20.
The mic pres' in the scrallet line is very transparent, so other pre amps can be used in conjunction.
As I sad, transparent but nice color when boosted a tad.

Great info cheers i think the  Focusrite scarlett 2i4 is the way to go as it has all i need, it has enough inputs for me as i only really use vst synth! but still leaves me the ability to record instruments if needed.
Thanks guys your wisdom has been taken in lol.....

coltpeacemaker
Great info cheers i think the  Focusrite scarlett 2i4 is the way to go as it has all i need, it has enough inputs for me as i only really use vst synth! but still leaves me the ability to record instruments if needed.
Thanks guys your wisdom has been taken in lol.....

You wont be sorry.
I have no attachment to Focusrite. My opinion and interests are solely on the fact that they have very little problems and just do what they should.
 
On top of that- When you plug a mic in to the Mic pres' you will be amazed at how nice those mic prs' sound.
Very warm yet still transparent. The midi ports are also very reliable and units construction is built like a mini tank.
Much like a good solid Mackie console.
 
Good luck and happy music making.

What on board sound chipset has an ASIO driver?

I'll bet it's ASIO4ALL.