Thanks for the suggestions but I decided to get an M-Audio Fast Track Pro. Thought it would solve all audio issues but....

(Setup: Fast Track Pro with Vista 64 bit latest drivers and brand new Dell i7 system)

Device shows connected on control panel when plugged in
Try to choose Output 3/4 SPDIF (or any other option) Panel goes grey and says busy. Stays grey and never recovers. Get a timeout error. Can unplug FTP and re-plug. Control panel comes back but goes grey when selecting an option etc, etc..

One other strange thing, device only recognized when plugged into the USB plug where it was first detected.

Tried device on Laptop with XP and all works fine (Panel goes grey and says busy but recovers with option selected. Appreciate any help on this