Thanks guys. The only type of speakers I will probably end up getting for this system at some point are a pair of studio monitors.
I looked into professional soundcards and it seems that these days people really like USB audio interfaces like this one (vs standalone cards):
Amazon.com: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 2 In/2 Out USB Recording Audio Interface: Musical Instruments
Does anyone have any experience and/or opinions on such a device?
Thanks again.