-The 828 is a solid piece of gear but not so small for slinging around with your laptop though..
-The M-audio firewire device is more compact choise OR
-The M-Audio Ozone will give you a good usb audio interface as well as a good controller for soft synths.

M-Audio's drivers have become top notch (after being crap a few years ago)
Plus.. if your tourinng around without any other gear you don't need all thoses ins and outs of the 828. Overkill...