Hi Eddie,

I'd say a dedicated audio interface is a very good idea. You get dedicated ASIo drivers, and hassle-free monitoring in your headphones as you record. You can get ASIO working with your onboard soundcard too, but there are more hoops to jump through.

Also, the pre-amps and analog-to-digital converters in a quality interface are much better than the ones in your computer's onboard soundcard. Even switching from an older Tascam interface to a MOTU was a night-and-day difference.

Thanks
Kent
PG Music