Sound Dilemma

[gottes]

I just upgraded my computer and I am not sure which sound option is the best. My motherboard (http://www.hardocp.com/article.html?art=NzQ4) has the following audio on-board:

8-Channel Realtek codec with S/PDIF RCA and optical based output ports

I currently am utilizing the following soundcard in lieu of the on-board option:

Creative Soundblaster PCI 512 (http://www.gamevortex.com/gamevortex/hard_rev.php/1)

Which sound option should I use? If neither, what is a decent alternative that is in the $50-$75 region?

Thanks

 

[Newbify2]

little more info would be helpful... Budget, what kind of speakers do you own, will own, is this computer mianly for games, music, movies......
If you only need stereo go the Chaintech AV-710 route.

 

[gottes]

I use my system for listening to music and playing games.

Current Speakers: (http://www.creative.com/products/product.asp?category=4&subcategory=27&product=139)

 

[GodsMadClown]

The chaintech AV-710 would be a good choice. Use the high-sample rate option for audio through 7&8. If you think you'll want to move to a surround setup for gaming, then an Audigy 2 Value.

 

[gottes]

thanks for the suggestions

 

[fenderltd]

As far as sound processing, would the onboard sound give better performace (system) overall than to have a pci slot sound? I have nforce soundstorm sound and I love it. Realtec I thought wasn't that good but its now on like every mother board. so is realtec 8channel better than a 5channel audigy (examples) ?

 

[GodsMadClown]

If you're happy, you're happy. However, if you upgrade to better speakers, then you owe it to yourself to test out a better soundcard. With typical bargain speaker choices, onboard is usually adequate.