[maxmsp] [OT] Opinion request for mid-range soundcard with 8 analog balanced outputs

Hello,

For a sound installation, I am looking for a soundcard with 8 analog  
balanced outputs. The card will be connected to a PC running Windows XP.

What I want is a card able to provide a reasonable output level  
without too much noise and a good driver. PCI, USB or FireWire are  
all OK.

Forget about RME and MOTU, I need something cheaper.

Possible choices are:
- Presonus FireStudio Project
- Tascam FW 1804
- Echo AudioFire 8
- Echo Layla 3G
- Alesis iO/26
- Focusrite Saffire Pro 10
... other suggestion?

So, please tell me about your experience with MaxMSP and these  
soundcards.

Thank you in advance.

Roald Baudoux