Hi. I'm trying to set up a DAW that will allow me to hear 5.1 as I edit it. Currently, I have a G5 Mac (love it), a technics SA-DX950 , Nuendo 2, and a Mackie 1202 VLZ (which I've had for some time). I'm not stuck with these items (except the Mac) and could start over if needs be.

What would be an ideal setup?

Also, I'm interested in being able to do recordings in a mobile environment and am intrigued by the MOTU 896HD firewire piece. (I also have access to a G4 powerbook.) Would that piece work with my DAW in editing 5.1 sound as well?

Some of my biases: I don't want ProTools, which still seems to be pretty proprietary and expensive. I like to be on the bleeding edge of alternatives to the main equipment used by professionals. (For example: I use Final Cut Pro instead of Avid for some "guerilla" film making.)

Thanks.