Hi Raymond, I'm new to this site, but I've been using cubase for many years. I started with cubase le and now use cubase 4. If you already own cubase ( any version ) all you need is an audio interface. There are many different types and price ranges. I started with a simple Behringer bc2000 interface with two channells and direct monitoring capabilities. It hooked up to the computer using a single usb line and cost about $200.00. I then moved on to a firepod 8 channell interface which was even better, and hooked up to the computer with a fire wire line, this cost $700.00 and came with cubase se. I now have a tascam DM4800 digital mixer with 48 inputs,24 busses,etc, and this connects to my computer with a fire wire line. When you purchase an interface it is also used as a sound card. Your interface will have a monitor section to hook up studio monitors. Most interfaces will come with an ASIO driver, which is easy to install and then all your sounds from computer games, media players, and your recordings can be heard thru the interface. So there are tons of options out there to meet your needs. If you just want to record a couple of tracks at a time then a small interface will do. Get one decent mic, plug it in to your interface, and your on your way to recording. There are some great products out ther Tascam,M-Audio, MOTU, Presonus, Digidesign, Behringer, etc....If you have any questions about cubase, I'd be more than happy to help..........