(Part 2) Best computer internal sound cards according to redditors

Hate to tell you but it's $99 on Amazon w/ free shipping:

https://www.amazon.com/LG-Hi-Fi-Plus-PLAY-AFD-1200/dp/B01DAER41K

If you're trying to get it to his audio system, you should really use either an optical or coaxial interconnect. As Fazookus mentioned, you can get a sound card with this relatively cheaply. Here's a link to the cheapest one- check out the chart a little ways down that shows the differences between the different cards in the line. I run the Titanium X-fi to my media center and am very happy with it.

The MSI Z97 Gaming 7 was a pretty high-end motherboard, you're not going to find all that in a $100 motherboard, AMD or Intel. And what do you need dual headphone amplifiers for anyway?

For ~$100 you've got two options: a motherboard with decent audio like the Gigabyte B450 Aorus Pro WiFi, or a cheaper motherboard + a sound card.

Its the SB1350.

This one http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00654PUPA?keywords=recon3d&qid=1451804974&ref_=sr_1_3&sr=8-3

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01DAER41K/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1475246347&sr=8-3&pi=SX200_QL40&keywords=lg+g5+module&dpPl=1&dpID=31fhh07Dz4L&ref=plSrch

The parts you picked are solid choices (I f*cking love this case), and come in at around ~$320, so I'll leave them out of the build. For the sound card, M-audio audiophile 2496 seems to be your best bet around the $100 price range. M-audio is a reputable brand in the DAW world, and features really good DAC/ADCs; I don't have any specifics about its ASIO latency (other than the fact that it does fully support ASIO drivers), so maybe you know some better ressources than me to find this kind of specific info.

So we have about $1180 left for the rest. I went with a Xeon E3 1241, basically a locked i7 with no integrated graphics (but you have a graphics card, so who cares). You will not be able to overclock it. 8GB of RAM will be enough to play music, unless you use a lot of high-quality samples, in multiple instruments at the same time. In this case, 16GB may be needed, we can probably adjust your build a bit for that if you need. The Mobo and RAM are black and blue, should go well with your leds. The GPU is indeed the GTX 970, really good card all around, and the Windforce has a good cooler, allowing it to run slightly faster and quieter than most. Make sure to plug the wi-fi adapter on the slot above the video card, and the sound card as low as you can, to optimize cooling. The monitor is only 60hz, but it is an IPS one, meaning you'll have good colors and viewing angles. 120hz+ monitors would add a good $100 to your total.

The build comes at $1190 before rebates, $1150 after. (so total of around $1570 after rebates)

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

Type|Item|Price
:----|:----|:----
CPU | Intel Xeon E3-1241 V3 3.5GHz Quad-Core Processor | $271.00 @ Amazon
Motherboard | MSI Z97 U3 Plus ATX LGA1150 Motherboard | $69.99 @ Newegg
Memory | Patriot Viper 3 Low Profile Blue 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory | $67.99 @ Newegg
Storage | Crucial MX100 256GB 2.5" Solid State Drive | $109.97 @ SuperBiiz
Storage | Seagate Barracuda 3TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive | $104.99 @ Newegg
Video Card | Gigabyte GeForce GTX 970 4GB WINDFORCE 3X Video Card | $349.89 @ Amazon
Power Supply | Rosewill 550W 80+ Gold Certified Fully-Modular ATX Power Supply | $54.99 @ Newegg
Monitor | Acer B236HLymdr 60Hz 23.0" Monitor | $126.00 @ Newegg
Wireless Network Adapter | Rosewill RNX-N150PCe 802.11b/g/n PCI-Express x1 Wi-Fi Adapter | $9.99 @ Amazon
| | Total
| Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available | $1149.81
| Generated by PCPartPicker 2014-11-20 17:02 EST-0500 |

Edit Switched you to a Xeon because I suck at math and went $100 over budget.
Edit again, if you're sure you're using 802.11ac, and not b/g or n, you'll have to go for a USB adapter like this one instead.

I gotta say, this was a significant challenge to keep the power and price it under $1000 with two monitors.

Ok, here we go:


Part list permalink / Part price breakdown by merchant

Type|Item|Price
:----|:----|:----
CPU | AMD Phenom II X6 1090T 3.2GHz 6-Core Processor | $199.99 @ Newegg
Motherboard | MSI 880GM-E43 Micro ATX AM3 Motherboard | $79.99 @ Newegg
Memory | Corsair XMS3 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1333 Memory | $74.99 @ Newegg
Hard Drive | Western Digital Caviar Blue 500GB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive | $41.98 @ Newegg
Hard Drive | Samsung Spinpoint F3 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive | $54.99 @ Newegg
Case | Rosewill R101-P-BK MicroATX Mid Tower Case | $39.98 @ Newegg
Power Supply | Antec 500W ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply | $49.99 @ Newegg
|| Total
| (Prices include shipping and discounts when available.) | $541.91
Additional Items | --Items not available in parts picker-- | ---
Video Card | PNY VCGGT4301XPB GeForce GT 430 (Fermi) 1GB | $49.99 @ Newegg
Sound Card | M-Audio Audiophile 2496 MIDI Digital Recording Interface | $86.56 @ Amazon
Monitor | ASUS VH236H Black 23" 2ms | $168.98 @ Newegg
Monitor | ASUS VH236H Black 23" 2ms | $168.98 @ Newegg
|| Grand Total
| (Prices include shipping and discounts when available.) | $1016.42

If you really, truly, want it under $1000 then use this EVGA 01G-P3-1312-LR GeForce 210 1GB for your video card which after mail-in rebate and shipping comes to $31.98 which saves you $18.01 bringing your total to $998.41. The machine would still be able to handle 1080p playback and two monitors. However, you would not want to use Mercury playback with that card (even if the hack in works which it may not). The GT430 costs less then $20 more so I definitely recommend it.

Brief:

• dropped the IPS panels: they were a bit out of the price range but these monitors are still great options.
  
  
• dropped to a GT430: if you won't be doing a ton of video editing then this is less important. However, this model should still work with the Mercury playback hack in Adobe Premier.
  
  
• dropped to a lower tier M-Audio card: still one of the highly recommended cards for audio recording. However, it is highly advised you get the computer running, install the drivers from their website AND THEN install the card. DO NOT follow in box directions or use in box CDs, apparently they're all shit in windows 7.
  
  
• kept the important parts: Small case, big CPU and RAM power.
  
  
• EDITED TWICE: I did not include OS in the pricing because some college campuses provide it for free or at a significant discount. If you need a $100 hole you can drop the Western Digital 500gb hard drive (save $41.98) and drop to a lower tier CPU AMD Phenom II x6 1055T (save $20) and drop the graphics card down to the alternative option above (save $18.01) which in total saves you an oddly round $79.99. It's pretty damn close and should cover the price of a school discounted Windows 7. If you need more money off there are some other options to look at which I can help you with any time; just PM me :)
  
  Here's a Windows 7 OEM pack link for convenience if you were to buy retail
  
  -- EDIT 2 - IMPORTANT!!! --
  
  Do not get the GT430 i listed in this post. It is not worth it because it's underpowered and may not actually work with Mercury.
  
  A better option would to either get the GT210 or drop the 500gb hard drive and get this ASUS GT240

That X-Fi Titanium HD is still a very competent card, I betcha you can find it relatively cheap! Amazon and Newegg.

There may be better options for the price, but I know this one is good.

Ahh whoops, you're right! Derped.

http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Blaster-Titanium-Internal-SB1270/dp/B0041OUA38/ref=sr_1_12?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1463282868&sr=1-12&keywords=Creative+soundcard

>Hardware-powered 3D positional audio and EAX 5.0 effects provide stunning audio realism over headphones and speakers.

I have an asus xonar essence st (the pci version of the essence stx) but if you're not looking for something that expensive (~$200) and 7.1 is a must this looks good. Just make sure that you have a free pci slot. If you are really serious about sound quality though and getting more high end headphones (>$300 range) you should look into a stereo DAC/amp combo or separate dac and amp.

Looking at your list on PC-Parts picker. Why are you going with Win10 Home and not Pro?

This is a little overkill: Asus Xonar Essence STX 24-bit 192 KHz Sound Card

Look into the:[ASUS STRIX SOAR Sound Card] (https://www.amazon.com/ASUS-STRIX-SOAR-Sound-Card/dp/B019H3BI4W)

Also personally I would go with a smaller boot SSD and a fast rotational HDD for data.

Sound card: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B006LFXBB8/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00

CPU Cooler: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0068OI7T8/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i00

Power Supply: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B001GLFD54/ref=oh_details_o03_s00_i00

CPU: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B007RUZKK6/ref=oh_details_o04_s00_i00

Hard drive: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B004CSIG1G/ref=oh_details_o04_s00_i02

Motherboard: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B005UDITT6/ref=oh_details_o04_s00_i03

Case: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B004HGE5Q8/ref=oh_details_o04_s01_i00

These last 3 are being dispatched, so cancelling will be harder. The rest can easily be cancelled!

WIFI card: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B006PMX964/ref=oh_details_o05_s00_i00

Disc drive! http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B003SM3HH0/ref=oh_details_o06_s00_i00

RAM: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00569K7LM/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i00

Sorry about it being such a mess :/ the case, motherboard, RAM, are all if I remember correctly the same as the list shown in my original post. I like that case.

most soundcards just need a PCI slot. This is the one I have and it works a treat.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B006LFXBB8/ref=s9_simh_gw_p147_d0_g147_i5?pf_rd_m=A3P5ROKL5A1OLE&pf_rd_s=center-3&pf_rd_r=085681JXREGHP8683AVD&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=467128473&pf_rd_i=468294

Has something that cancels out voices for when you are talking to people which is damn helpful as it means you dont have echoeing. Still, that would mean £65 in total including the speakers... Quite alot for sound system (It does sound good though :D)

Does it have an express card slot?

If so you can get a card to put in there that has a headphone jack for $25.

http://www.amazon.com/Creative-SB0950-ExpressCard-Blaster-Notebook/dp/B001BS3A3E

Get a nicer sound card.

This sounds like motherboard interference. It's very normal and common. Happens on a ton of laptops.

One thing you can do to get rid of it is buy a cheap sound card. Doesn't need to be anything expensive, I've heard good things about these. The idea is to get audio processing off of the motherboard.

edit: oh is the noise always there? Even if you mute your PC? If so, it's almost certainly interference.

Greets,
Thanks for the information. My apologies on not getting back sooner.

Currently my computer is across from my wife's; would the open back disturb her?

In regards to the sound card; the 'part number' listed is SB0880 on the back off the card. However it also has the 'Fatality' metal shroud so I expect it's the SB0886 version (as seen here). I'm using that instead of on-board because the MixAmp Pro wants Dolby Digital but DD isn't supported on-board (out of the box; I understand there are ways to 'hack' the onboard so it will also support DD); it is supported on the X-Fi (plus I already had the X-Fi). My plan is to switch to an FiiO E10K down the road but run the headphones from either the onboard or X-Fi for the time being.

Cool! I noticed you linked the AudioInjector Zero. Is that the model you'll be testing with? They make another model, the AudioInjector Stereo Soundcard (Link), for not much more.

They both look like they have about the same functionality, but the Stereo doesn't have breakout boards like the Zero does. I imagine they're based on the same chip(s)?

Yea i figured that integrated sucks. I'm thinking of buying this to help. Would it help?

Also the G5, but it's an add on module
https://smile.amazon.com/LG-Hi-Fi-Plus-PLAY-AFD-1200/dp/B01DAER41K?sa-no-redirect=1

Soundcard or external DAC ?

Hello this is my first post here, I don't even know if I'm in right subreddit.

I was about to buy this soundcard:

https://www.amazon.de/Creative-Blaster-Interne-Soundkarte-PCI-Express/dp/B009S1NTUU

but now I saw this:

https://www.amazon.de/FiiO-E10K-Olympus-Digital-Kopfh%C3%B6rerverst%C3%A4rker-schwarz/dp/B00LP3AMC2

can you give me an advice, is there a major difference? Thanks a lot.

Going for the A55 board was definitely a good idea. the power supply, I'd rather the 80+ Bronze for an $8 difference after rebate. ($2 shipping on the CX430). With Changes :

Part list permalink / Part price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

Type|Item|Price
:----|:----|:----
CPU | AMD A6-3500 2.1GHz Triple-Core Processor | $77.99 @ Mac Mall
Motherboard | Gigabyte GA-A55M-DS2 Micro ATX FM1 Motherboard | $49.99 @ NCIX US
Memory | Crucial 4GB (2 x 2GB) DDR3-1333 Memory | $22.99 @ Newegg
Case | nMEDIAPC HTPC 1000B HTPC Case | $69.99 @ NCIX US
Power Supply | Antec 380W ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply | $44.99 @ Amazon
Optical Drive | Asus BC-12B1ST/BLK/B/AS Blu-Ray Reader, DVD/CD Writer | $56.23 @ Amazon
Bluetooth | ASUS USB-BT211 Mini Bluetooth Dongle USB 2.0 | $12.99 @ Newegg
Remote | Sony PS3 BT Remote | $19.99 @ Newegg
Sound Card | Creative X-FI Titanium-Fatal1ty | Already Owned
Hard Drive | Seagate 80GB SATA | Already Owned
| | Total
| Prices include shipping and discounts when available. | $355.16
| Generated 2012-04-24 20:46 EDT-0400 |

EDIT: Added table with parts

I've got a Creative Sound Blaster Z card (or something like that) which simulates surround sound even on stereo headphones. Works brilliantly. Can pinpoint vehicles and infantry exactly.

Great fun going infiltrator hunting with it.

Had no issues and works great with every game I've tried.

Creative Sound Blaster Z PCI Express Sound Card https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B009S1NTUU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_tqTWzb32YG1H6

Are you using the audio jack on the tower, the Mobo, or a dedicated sound card. My tower jack won't do 5.1, but my motherboard audio jack will. If you're doesn't, you could get a pci or USB audio card that handles Dolby with a toslink output for pretty cheap and use that for pc-tv/pc-denon.

ASUS XONAR SE 5.1 Channel 192kHz/24-bit Hi-Res 116dB SNR PCIe Gaming Sound Card with Windows 10 Compatibility https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HCX1NY9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_BhBRDbKA9C8CJ

The Asus Xonar DX should fit your price range. This is a probably the best sound card if you're under a budget and want great sound. The high sample rate will complement well with FLAC/high bit-rate MP3's and movies.

Another option is the Creative Sound Blaster Z The sample rate isn't AS high as the Xonar, but it's still a good card. The only reason I might suggest this is if you're a die-hard gamer. Creative is EAX certified and some people swear that the positional-audio is better. However, I still suggest the Xonar as Asus has been able to replicate the same quality of 3D sound with their drivers over the years.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

Type|Item|Price
:----|:----|:----
CPU | Intel Core i7-4770 3.4GHz Quad-Core Processor | £215.81 @ Amazon UK
CPU Cooler | Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO 82.9 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler | £22.85 @ CCL Computers
Motherboard | Asus H87-PRO ATX LGA1150 Motherboard | £87.44 @ Scan.co.uk
Memory | Patriot Signature 8GB (1 x 8GB) DDR3-1333 Memory | £37.15 @ Amazon UK
Memory | Patriot Signature 8GB (1 x 8GB) DDR3-1333 Memory | £37.15 @ Amazon UK
Storage | Samsung 840 Series 120GB 2.5" Solid State Disk | £71.99 @ Aria PC
Video Card | MSI GeForce GTX 760 2GB Video Card | £215.95 @ CCL Computers
Case | Fractal Design Define R4 (Black Pearl) ATX Mid Tower Case | £77.70 @ Aria PC
Power Supply | OCZ Fatal1ty 550W 80 PLUS Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply | £57.66 @ Amazon UK
Optical Drive | Samsung SH-222BB/BEBE DVD/CD Writer | £12.99 @ Amazon UK
Operating System | Microsoft Windows 8 (OEM) (64-bit) | £69.59 @ Aria PC
| | Total
| Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available. | £906.28
| Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-08-04 02:08 BST+0100 |

• Thanks to Intel's hyper threading technology the CPU is a eight core. You won't have any trouble video / audio editing.
  
• You don't need an aftermarket CPU, but it is quieter and keeps the CPU cooler than the stock one.
  
• A quality motherboard.
  
• 16GB RAM are plenty for audio / video creation.
  
• SSD for OS and main programs.
  
• HDD for media.
  
• GTX 760 helps in video editing and can play any game at max settings atb1080p.
  
• A silence optimized case.
  
• A good power supply with more than enough headroom.
  
• A cheap optical drive, because who uses those?
  
• If you want the start menu back in WIN8, try Classic Shell or StartIsBack out.
  
• I don't know about your audio gear, but if you need a sound card: Asus Xonar Essence STX, Creative Sound Blaster ZxR, Creative Labs Sound Blaster ZxR, CREATIVE Sound Blaster Z. You should definitely do more research on these cards.

Here's one from Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Creative-SB0950-ExpressCard-Blaster-Notebook/dp/B001BS3A3E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1376280592&sr=8-1&keywords=expresscard+54+sound+card

Have you looked at USB sound cards? They're a whole lot cheaper.

Thanks you for answering. Well that would be the cheap combo, but I also was thinking about going for the HD650 + a sound card instead of a DAC for emulated surround etc (overhall a better alternative ?).

This sound card in particular would fit my budget (Creative sound blaster Z > https://www.amazon.fr/Creative-Sound-Blaster-Performance-ProStudio/dp/B009RPQA2G) combo'd with the HD650

Would it be a good upgrade while staying in the style of music / comfort I like ? And is the Creative Sound Blaster Z gonna be too cheap of a sound card for the HD650 compared to a Creative ZxR or an Asus STX II ?

What do you think ?

Edit: Or and HD598 + Creative ZxR/Asus STX II for a better balance instead of HD650 + Creative Sound Blaster Z ?

Edit 2: Well I just found a really cheap DT 880 Pro... and will probably order this one https://www.amazon.fr/Beyerdynamic-Casque-Hi-Fi-880-32/dp/B000F2BLTM?th=1 , I guess I just need a better DAC than the fiio E10K for this one. What about a Schiit one? You'd recommend one in particular ?

More like this + this for PCI or this for PCIe

You had picked the wrong soundcard, the DX would be for simulating surround sound on a stereo system. Confusing, I know. Asus is not making it easy for us.

The drivers that come with it should have virtualization on by default.

Couple things I would change is probably going for the Sound Blaster Z and getting the G4me One from Amazon. The white edition is even cheaper.

Couldn't be happier. In order to get the bass drum to feel acoustic I had to put a kevlar patch on it and use my speed cobra felt beaters (you're not supposed to use felt beaters on a mesh head, too much friction).

I have 5 toms, 2 snares, 3 crashes, a ride, hats, and one aux cymbal (usually used as a china). I'm running everything through Superior Drummer and its various addons running in either Reaper or Cantabile. The extra drums that can't be plugged in to the TD-12 module I have going through a trigger to midi converter which then plugs in to the midi in on the TD-12 module. The midi out on the TD-12 module then goes to my computer where I have an Audiophile 2496. If you go with a setup similar to mine (running midi through a drum sampler) make sure you use a really good sound card. If you don't, you're going to be dealing with massive latency.

Edit: Keep in mind that I am happy with my electric kit, but I got it because I'm moving into an apartment soon. But once I get out of there (after college) I plan on getting myself a nice Starclassic Birch / Bubinga Kit.

This card. I believe one jack carries 2 srround channels and the subwoofer, the other carries another 3 surround channels.

You sold me on sennheiser's my friend and I got a seperate sound card, since i have an Nvidia green themed rig, i got the builder version of the card without the red housing so i can solder on my own greens LED's

here is what i ended up getting.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008O510Y8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B1I0QYK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

YOU get a steam game from my library for your help in this. send me a PM with your steam ID

I used the Claro II for a while with a 5.1 setup, it was fine but it just lacked what I needed (mainly used for games/music) went with a Creative Recon3D. I'd say get the ASUS Xonar that Posting_Account recommended, you'd probably have a better experience.

Great!! I'm super happy that I was able to inspire someone! If you have any questions feel free to ask me for advice. Have fun and, good luck!

Edit: If you don't want to get the sound card from China you can get it from Amazon in two days: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MT46GYI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

•Budget - 200 for headphones, 200 for DAC/amp

•Source - unknown yet

•Requirements for Isolation - none

•Preferred Type of Headphone - over-ear monitor

•Preferred tonal balance - Neutral/warm

•Past headphones -280pros, m50s, m-100s

•Preferred Music - Blues, classic rock, electronic, house, PC gaming.

I need help with my computer setup. I currently have a PCIe sound card, sound blaster titanuim HD, which is ok. It doesnt impress me much, my e07k sounds way better when used as a usb DAC. I am mainly using my M-100s when on my computer,which i would like to replace. I am going to use my M-100s as my mobile and work out cans. So I would like to find a pair of cans that stays at my desk. Since my e07k will be with my M-100, would like an amp that stays at the desk. I was thinking of useing a e09k as a amp and my sound card as a dac. Or would it be better to go with Schiit mangi?

I just read a quick review of the Vengeance 1500 v2 and it is a very solid choice it seems. Definitely a better sound quality.
The only downside of this headset is the spatialisation in 2.0 mode, but you just have to use the 7.1.
However it is still emulated 7.1 (only a driver per side) but it still does a really good job at spatialisation.
A true 7.1 headseat would require five drivers per side but would also require a dedicated sound card

i went with this, http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-GAME-ONE-Gaming-Headset/dp/B00GWU8FTK?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00
and this
http://www.amazon.com/ASUS-STRIX-SOAR-Sound-Card/dp/B019H3BI4W?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01

already have dt 770 pros 80 ohm... but they are about 11 years old and have too much base for overwatch... or at least thats what im testing out with the new ones... love the return policy on amazon.

Getting a Soundcard really seems like a good idea for you. If you play on a laptop, get an USB soundcard like the creative Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi Surround 5.1 Pro.
If you've got a full PC, then I'd recommend a PCIe soundcard like the Creative Sound Blaster Z.
I have owned both of these cards and in my experience they are worth the money and work really well. And they also got some really nice software (the Z a bit better than the USB one) with good noise and echo filters.

EDIT: looking for used ones is really worth it in my experience.

I hope I could help you :)

Creative ZXR (Sound Card)

is Soundblaster ZxR obsolete to drive this pair of headphone ?
https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Blaster-Audiophile-Performance-Headphone/dp/B00AQ5PK6I

just in case i can't find Schiit products where i live

I'm completely new to this (basically have zero experience in the audio world) but I'm looking at getting a dedicated sound card. My use case is pretty much purely gaming, but I also listen to music a lot, just not hardcore like a lot of you folks do. I'm also a VR enthusiast and would be using this heavily for VR games. My setup would consist of 2.0 speakers, IEM's, and whatever sound card I get. What's important to me, in no particular order, is audio quality, immersiveness, surround sound, positional audio, ease of use/lack of hassle, build quality, and proper EMI shielding/lack of signal noise. The quality of audio through IEM's is more important than the quality of audio through the 2.0 speakers, since I wear IEM's while in VR. I'm not considering a DAC/amp at all, so please don't suggest that. My budget is $100 or less.

Here's what I've found so far, again in no particular order:

ASUS Xonar DSX

Creative Sound Blaster Z

Creative Sound Blaster Audigy RX 7.1

ASUS Strix SOAR

ASUS Xonar DGX

Out of these options, which do you think is best for my use case? Are there any better options in this price range I haven't considered yet? Will this even be a noticeable improvement over onboard audio? (Z270 motherboard)

Also, kinda unrelated but also kinda related: If I'm not horribly confused (which I am), the 2.0 speakers would require a left audio input and a right input, like this. However, I've noticed that none of these sound cards have left audio out/right audio out ports. Just front, rear, center, and woofer. (Plus a few more, like line in/mic in, but never left/right audio out.) So, uh... Where would I plug my speakers in? >.>

Also also, a lot of these sound cards advertise support for surround sound. Do I HAVE to have a 5.1/7.1 system in order to use surround sound, or would I be able to get surround sound with 2.0 speakers? Ditto for headphones - if I was using IEMs, would I be able to get surround sound? Or would it be the same as using onboard audio in that regard/make no difference because it's still only two speakers (one in each ear)?

AKG K702 - about 500 hours on them
Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi Titanium HD - hasn't been removed since installation in 2013
and a QNIX QX2710 Evolution II 27" 1440p Monitor
More on the Qnix: Minimal light bleed at bottom of screen. Only really visible with full black picture up, no dead pixels, and OC'able to 96 hz.

Furthermore - is trading the Qnix for a 144hz monitor (Asus or BenQ) fair?

DG (PCI)

DGX (PCIe)

I have a DG and it's great. Use the UniXonar drivers as they're more flexible and faster. The DG is all you need unless you want to spend $100+ on a USB DAC, which is only reasonable if you have $300+ headphones. The only issue I have with the DG is that Linux (ALSA) doesn't have great support for it.

If anybody knows a cheap PCIe sound card with decent quality that works well with Linux, please let me know.

Hello, years ago I purchased the Sound Blaster X-Fi Titanium Fatal1ty Pro, http://www.amazon.com/Creative-SB0886-Titanium-Fatal1ty-Professional/dp/B0018EFGTM

I am currently using HD598 and for desktop speakers the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1. I was wondering if I should replace my soundcard or add anything to get the best sound quality. Thank you.

I have a Titanium X-Fi HD if you are still looking. Here are some pics

This is something I've been very interested in. I've found this post comparing the V20 to the Fiio E10K and Xduoo XD-05, and a head-fi review comparing the iFi Nano iDSD BL with the V30 (search V30 to find the review). I found it very interesting that the V20 reviewer found the V20 to be all around better sounding than the Fiio E10K

I'm currently debating between getting this LG thingy for my OnePlus 3, the iFi Nano iDSD BL, or simply upgrading to the V30. Choices :/

Do yourself a massive favour and DO NOT buy another gaming headset. The manufacturers take advantage of the fact that many gamers know little or nothing about audio and so release these 'gaming oriented' headphones which are actually just not very good value for money at their absolute best (excluding a couple made by 'non gaming companies'). If a pair of headphones are good for music, they're good for gaming. If they're bad for music, they're bad for gaming - there is no there way of looking at it.

Lecture over.

My recommendation is that you buy a decent pair of headphones (I have a pair of AKGs and absoloutley LOVE them so that's what I'm recommending. Be open to other suggestions just as long as they're 'audiophile grade' and have good reviews on head-fi so here are some AKGs that are within your price range http://www.amazon.com/AKG-240-Semi-Open-Studio-Headphones/dp/B0001ARCFA/ref=sr_1_15?s=aht&ie=UTF8&qid=1404427253&sr=1-15 )

For the mic, you then buy an AntLion ModMic 4.0 (if you are worried about the quality, watch TekSyndicate's video on it where Logan compares the 4.0 to the 2.3)

You then buy a cheapy Creative soundcard as there is no point buying a nice pair of headphones and running them off the crappy audio chip on your motherboard (http://www.amazon.com/Creative-SB0570L4-Sound-Blaster-Audigy/dp/B000LP0R3E/ref=sr_1_11?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1404427558&sr=1-11&keywords=creative+sound+card) if you're worried about this, ask me and I'll tell you why this is a good idea.

If you do all of that, yes it will look a little silly but you will have a KILLER audio setup for half the price of this utter piece of shit http://www.amazon.co.uk/Razer-Edition-In-line-Microphone-Headset/dp/B00H7T5ICM/ref=sr_1_5?s=computers&ie=UTF8&qid=1404427678&sr=1-5&keywords=razer+kraken

i've been playing with a raspberry pi (3) + audioinjector sound card to rip some records on various systems for comparison. it's a great little card, does 192/24 and sounds wonderful.

We likely need some more information. What type of audio outputs does your PC offer? Do you have room for expansion cards, and what inputs does the sound system accept.

Something g like this may be possible as a solution.


https://www.amazon.com/ASUS-XONAR-SE-Channel-Compatibility/dp/B07HCX1NY9

Ooops, I meant internal sound cards like these ones:

https://www.amazon.com/Xonar-Phoebus-Gaming-Soundcard-Sound/dp/B007ZT1Q3E

Some of them come with the sound card that goes in your computer, and then an amplified box that sits outside your computer to plug in your headphones.

In your case, your JBLs are already amplified, so you dont need an amp. And I dont see any benefit to having an onboard sound card and a DAC - they would both be doing the same thing (sound processing), so it would be one or the other (if it turns out you need any at all).

No, I’m running a single Buttkicker and Crew Chief, and you have to have a dedicated sound card for the Buttkicker.

I use this one and it works perfectly:


ASUS XONAR SE 5.1 Channel 192kHz/24-bit Hi-Res 116dB SNR PCIe Gaming Sound Card with Windows 10 Compatibility https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HCX1NY9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Fe6EDbSCXZPFY

Just cutting off the end and adding a USB plug will not work. The two plugs communicate using different standards and it will not transmit a usable signal for USB just by putting on a USB end. A lot of older and low end sound cards include a game port plug. Finding a older used sound card on eBay or a low end card with gameport will be your best bet. Here is an example that I found with a quick Google search. You may be able to do better if you search a bit longer.

http://www.amazon.com/Generic-Channel-Internal-Desktop-Computer/dp/B00M2FDQOS?SubscriptionId=AKIAITJUXVH7AUF2Q2SA&tag=computer-geek-20&linkCode=sp1&camp=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B00M2FDQOS

I don't know how will it work since the signal is already processed.
I meant something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Diymore-Power-PCM2704-Decoder-Computer/dp/B01MT46GYI/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1539248774&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=pcm2704%2Bdac&dpPl=1&dpID=51mLuOAJVQL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1
Otherwise you can try something from hifimediy which start from 35-40$ but they sound definitely better

https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Blaster-Audiophile-Performance-Headphone/dp/B00AQ5PK6I/
What do you think about this card? Any better or worse?

Something like this is more geared towards gaming but I believe that something like this has a better headphone AMP.

I'm getting a lot of crackling/pops with every emulator.


Overclocking, disabling BT and WIFI, changing pwm_audio_mode (where are these documented?)... nothing has made a difference.

I'm using a Pi Zero W in a Retroflag GPi case. It happens with both the built-in speaker and the headphone jack. It's possible this could be do to a poor GPIO connection with the pogo pin connectors maybe.


I'm currently considering trying to fit this USB sound card into the case: https://www.amazon.com/Diymore-Power-PCM2704-Decoder-Computer/dp/B01MT46GYI


It appears to be using this chip: http://www.ti.com/product/PCM2704

Do you still have a need/use for that port, though? Like I said, I'm sure you can find some old SoundBlasters and there are some poorly-reviewed cheap ones with that port as well. At this point it's more about whether or not you can use USB or something else, because even if you do slap in an old card there's no guarantee that you'll have drivers for Win 7/8/10 to use it.

EDIT: If you do need the legacy hardware, try the SoundBlaster SB0100

The OEM version of a Sound Blaster Recon3D is a good choice: http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Sound-Blaster-Recon3D-SB1350/dp/B00654PUPA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1348151945&sr=8-1&keywords=sound+blaster+recon3d

Great sound quality in a all-around effects package.

Something like this: http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Blaster-Fatal1ty-Champion-SB1354/dp/B0060SXDRI/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1377681049&sr=8-5&keywords=soundblaster
or even just a better version of the asus you've got there: http://www.amazon.com/ASUS-XONAR-Channel-Audio-Sound/dp/B001EZQ8YC/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1377681131&sr=8-9&keywords=asus+xonar
Whatever suits you really!

Amazon sells the oem version for under $80 and retail new for like $95

https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B009S1NTUU/ref=olp_f_primeEligible?ie=UTF8&f_new=true&f_primeEligible=true&qid=1474478836&sr=8-3

Get this.

And this.