USB soundcard recommendation please

[JosephK]

Can anyone recommend a good USB soundcard that works in Linux. I need
one for my laptop running Hardy as my Creative MP+ has just packed up.
Would prefer not to go with Creative as this is the third Creative
soundcard I bought that has packed up within 2 years of purchase.

Needs to have standard audio input & output for connection to a Hi-Fi
amp, headphone socket and of course Vol control. 

All suggestions welcome.

-- 
Regards, Joe