Hey dude,
If i was bored with home recording questions, it would be pretty stupid to run a home recording forum.
I'm sending you an PM about your soundcard issue. I have a tool that is not ready for public release, but could probably help you.
As for the software, I couldn't recommend Cubase SX3 higher. I've done a lot of recording in the past 5 years and after switching to it this past summer, I must say that I've had a lot of trouble finding anything it can't do.
Brandon