What exactly am I looking for?

My system: self built 1.2 Athlon, 256MB, DVD, 24x CD burner, TV tuner card, currently using onboard AC97.
I am sorta new to computing, but learn quickly. I am looking for ideas for the right sound card. I would like to use this or another computer for an all-in-one A/V box. I do not own a stereo or speakers right now. Connected to a large display, I would like to be able to use the MP3s on my computer or Internet radio to host parties, to finally convert those old cassettes and LPs to a digital format, and to watch DVDs- importance in that order and simplicity is paramount. From previous reading I know these criteria conflict in some way, so is there a card that makes the best compromise? Of course, I would like to pay the least I need, but will pay what is necessary. Have seen good coments about the Santa Cruz cards. Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks!

You may consider the Soundblaster Audigy MP3 sound card it supports the 5.1 surround sound speakers, its around $100.00 US and the Creative 5.1 speaker system rocks, and is about $130.00 US.

I found the newbie with the electric guitar in the tin can! hah.
he wants an ALL in one A/V system.

Your best bet in the consumer area of sound is a Herculees Game Theatre XP 6.1 package. runs 130.00 retail and includes a VERY nice breakout box with all the connections you could want. This poduct excels above the audigy for this type of setup. Oh yea, the GTXP is basically a Santa Cruz with a hum dinger of a breakout box instead of just simple on card connections.

edited:
PS. Never buy cheap creative speakers. They sound like someone put a newbie with an electric guitar in a big tin can and turned the lights out.

The itsy bitsy spider climbed up the empires state building, along came goblin, wiped the spider out<P ID="edit"><FONT SIZE=-1><EM>Edited by williamc on 05/17/02 10:55 AM.</EM></FONT></P>