New Audio Interface Time, Suggestions?

Hi folks,

Long time CW user, first time forum member.  

I am looking to upgrade my input-ability for the first time in years and years.  Looking for some advice from anyone with what they feel is an awesome interface.  Tell me why I should buy it.  My old interface: Echo Audio Gina 3g PCI.  It has been ok, but leaves a little to be desired.  It also does not even come close to handling the multiple inputs I am looking for now.

My needs:

Minimum 12 inputs, minimum 2 pre-amp lines
SPDIF
MIDI
Assignable outs with (hopefully) a headphone breakout ability

Most importantly, rock solid drivers and no stability issues


My machine can handle whatever I throw at it, so I really am looking for an interface with proven reliability and seamless software control.  I do have 1 firewire port, willing to put in a FW card if necessary to increase performance.

So far I am looking pretty hard at the Sapphire Pro 40 from focusrite.  At ~$499, this is (unfortunately) the upper end of my budget.

Any suggestions / insight is welcome.

Cheers!

Save your pennies (well a 55 gal drum of pennies) and get an RME.

Something from RME... Their drivers are rock solid.....  even in Windows 8....