Does a sound card make a big difference in audio quality? Also, digital vs. analog?

[careful]

Sorry for the noob question. I was wondering if some of the 'recommended' cards out there:
Auzentech Prelude
Sondigo Inferno
SB X-Fi
Asus D2
etc..

really make a difference when playing MP3s or audio CDs? I don't care about CPU utilization, only audio quality.
I'm not hooked up to audiophile receiver/speakers, just a set of Z-5500.

Any other cards to recommend? How is the external sb live! 24-bit?

Also, does digital optical/coaxial make a big difference over 3.5mm analog connection (the green/orange/black wires)?

Thanks.

[daragon]

I switched from integrated to an old SB Audigy gamer version I had in the closet. I noticed that with the integrated there was a audible buzz at the higher volumes, and when i turned it down it was still there. When i switched the audio was perfect as high as my volume would go.

Yes It makes a difference, but usually only at the higher volumes or if you have fantastic hearing.

I don't think the type of card makes a difference, mine is at least 10 years old and still works great. Keep in mind that sound is sound, it only gets clearer, there will never bee more of it. But the sound card companies need you to think you need a new sound card every so often, so they will come out with something new every year. My advice is find a sound card that meets your needs or wants and that you can justify buying, and use it until it dies. Don't worry about if there is a "better" sound card out there.

[Auric]

Sorry for the noob question. I was wondering if some of the 'recommended' cards out there:
Auzentech Prelude
Sondigo Inferno
SB X-Fi
Asus D2
etc..

really make a difference when playing MP3s or audio CDs? I don't care about CPU utilization, only audio quality.
I'm not hooked up to audiophile receiver/speakers, just a set of Z-5500.

Yes. In most cases, it's a matter of which card has superior DACs, but bass management and DSP processing also come into play. For example, my X-Fi has boomier bass than my M-Audio Revolution, even with CMSS, crystalizer and whatever else disabled. I wouldn't consider it an improvement, but it is certainly a distinctly different sound. If you're gunning for music sound quality, the only Creative card to consider is the X-Fi. Otherwise, look to companies like M-Audio, Terratec, ESI, etc. They make cards marketed more towards musicians and sound professionals than gamers.

Also, does digital optical/coaxial make a big difference over 3.5mm analog connection (the green/orange/black wires)?p

In and of itself, no. However, if you use the analog connections, your sound card has to perform a digital to analog conversion. If you use a digital connection, this conversion will be done by the receiver box on your Z-5500s. Which connection is superior for you comes down to which device has the better DACs.