Strengths: Has XLR connections with phantom power.No drivers needed for windows. (uses inbuilt (class) drivers)No external power needed.
Summary: I bought the M-Audio MobilePre USB for connecting professional XLR microphones to my laptop. These mics need Phantom power. I searched for many options and found this to be the best option. I used a very audio equalization software called REW. (http://www.hometheatershack.com/roomeq/) This works absolutely fine with this M-Audio MobilePre USB. In fact this is the most recommended pre-amp for use with REW. Thie pre-amp is very nice as it does not require any power, it is USB powered. The other thing is that it can take upto two XLR mics. The best thing is that it does not need any driver installation. Windows detects and installs it in one minute !
Overall this is one of the best piece of hardwware I have used.