what is a good interface for home computer music recording?

Hello and thank you for your question.  The M-Audio Fast Track is a simple to use and portable way to create High Quality home recordings. It is a pretty basic unit and so it's not an expensive unit, and does not require a great amount of experience. This can be found at Interstate Music for $89.

The ART USB Dual Pre is another interface that offers a little more options.  First it is a full-featured high quality dual portable Preamplifier and computer Interface. It also has Low Noise Fully Balanced XLR and 1/4-inch TRS Combi Inputs and Independent Channel Gain Controls.  This unit you can find at Performance Audio for $79.

One other unite you might want to take a look at is the Rolls GC1404 Digital computer Interface.   This unite easily hooks to your computer and can begin recording right away.  It has many features including Automatic "Ducking" or talkover feature for Mic Input, Microphone input with phantom power, Individual Level controls for Mic, Instrument and Line Inputs, and many other features.  You can find the Rolls GC1404 at http://www.PSSL.COM ( ProSound and Stage Lighting) for $109.99.

I hope this help in your choice of equipment and Happy Holidays.