Audio Desk Expectations??? Options

[viking]

I'm about to enter the digital recording world, (As well as the Mac world). After exhausting myself on several forums, I'm planning to purchase a Powerbook G4 (867MHz, 256K, 40GB) along with the MOTO 828MKII. These purchases will also exhaust my initial budget.

This will be a songwriting/production platform. I'm a drummer as well and need the input capabilities for when I mic up my kit.

That being said, my concerns are for the software which comes with the 828. My plan is to get acquainted with the Mac and digital recording using MOTU's included software, then upgrading to DP4 or crossgrading to Cubase if I felt it necessary. What should I expect?

-With the 828, will I get Audiodesk 1 or 2?
- I understand Audiodesk does not support MIDI. Does this mean I can't create drum loops or do anytype of sequencing at all unless I upgrade to DP4?
-What are the remaining (if any) issues with OSX and the new 828 that might give me difficulties?

Those are my thoughts for now. Any suggestions beyond my topics whould be appreciated as well.

Viking...

[THE DUDE]

I would suggest the M Box but I realised you require multiple ins/outs. Maybe consider the Digi 01...it is also from Digidesign and both units include Pro Tools which is pretty much the industry standard for recording and audio editing. If all else fails check out the product line up from M Audio. They have recently released a new firewire soundcard that accomodates all of your above requirements.