The SB Live Platinum has a front ATAPI face which allows optical inputs, guitar input, keyboard input plugs w/ infrared remote. I put this in my dad's rig. I'm not sure of all its capabilities, but there is alot of flexibility for audio integration. There is a plug in for mini discs and dat plus the software is directed toward those who want to play around w/ mixing music. With a cd burner this all seems like a pretty cool option, but not necessary..