Suggestions for Sound Card and Speakers

I have been buying parts for a new computer and at this point the sound card and speakers are the two major parts that I haven't bought. The computer will be used primarily for gaming as well as for movies and music.

What sound card and speakers should I consider buying? I'm not looking for something expensive (at most I might consider paying $150 for both parts).

For that budget add a bit more and you can get a Creative X-Fi X-Gamer and possibly a set of Logitech X-530's this would do very nicely for the money your investing..
Note: Do NOT buy the Extreme Audio. It is generally avoided by gamers looking for a X-fi.

Even though it would cost more than I was hoping to pay for a sound card, the X-Fi XtremeGamer does look like a good fit for my computer.

How does the X-530 compare with the X-540? Amazon currently has a deal for the latter (MIR though and I'm not sure how good Amazon is when dealing with defective products compared to Newegg or similar).

If I remember the X530 to X540 and the Z640 for that matter are all the same with looks being the main differences. There entry level 5.1 sets are great deals for the money. Couple to that card I think you will be very happy with the sound your system will put out in music, movies and gaming. If you have to add a few bucks then do it. I don't recommend going any other way for a entry level audio rig. Good Luck

I agree with AG, the 540 + XFi will be a great investment for your enjoyment. It will be a really nice system I think.

Go for it!

Parth said:

How does the X-530 compare with the X-540?

Click to expand...

Dont quote me on this... but basically I was going to buy the X-530, but it wasnt available. So I got the X-540, same price and all.
The chick in the local store told me "Oh you're lucky, these just arrived and they have a remote control, the X-530 didnt".

So anyway my X-540 has a remote control (basically a wired control that comes outta the subwoffer, but its amazing... I can easily change the volume and all by having it next to my monitor, parallel to my mouse ). The control also has an input for headphones, a button for matrix mode and a bass control knob as well.

So, Im not sure 100% if the X-530 has that remote control, but looking at the customer images in amazon, it seems the volume is located in the back of the subwoffer... for me that kinda sucks (notice: for me ).

So there you have what seems to be the difference between the two.

And yes, any of them rock! After watching some of my DVDs with full 5.1 for the first time I almost feel like in the theater (and Im even using the "crappy" onboard sound).

Thanks for all of your help!

I decided to buy the X-540 speakers and will most likely order the X-Fi XtremeGamer in a few days.