Soundblaster X-Fi Xtreme vs. Asrock z77 Onboard

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Parafly

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May 3, 2012
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I haven't found anything definitive, but I had an old Soundblaster card from a HP ATX desktop from a few years ago. I had this in my machine, but is it really necessary now? I heard the Asrock might have better onboard audio than I'm getting from this card anyway.

Thanks in advance!
 
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maddogfargo
On-board Audio CODECs for most modern and high end motherboards are actually very good.

For example, the ASRock Z77 Extreme 4 has a Realtek ALC898 audio CODEC. Specs put it at 24bit, 192KHz, 104db SNR in and 110db SNR out.

Just be aware, you may need to use the rear headphone jack for best results with high end headphones. These usually have a more powerful amplifier than the front panel connections.
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Traciatim

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I have a Soundblaster Z which replaced my on board on my Gigabyte Z77x-ud3h. Other than a few features taht the card supports I didn't really notice all that much difference in the audio quality. I use it with Beyerdynamic DT660's and Logitech Z-2300's. I wouldn't call them extremely top end audio gear or anything, but it's no where near bargain basement stuff.

The card has a nice feature that lets you keep your headphones and speakers plugged in and you can switch the output between the two on software, but otherwise it seems like a waste.
 
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Parafly

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Well the reason is I might want to use that PCI slot for something else (like more USB3.0 ports, or something else). I have a Bose Companion 2.1 system (that I Got 10 years ago!) but it still works and sounds great. I do a lot of video editing but so far I haven't noticed any difference in audio since pulling the card out.
 
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maddogfargo

maddogfargo

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Nov 28, 2006
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On-board Audio CODECs for most modern and high end motherboards are actually very good.

For example, the ASRock Z77 Extreme 4 has a Realtek ALC898 audio CODEC. Specs put it at 24bit, 192KHz, 104db SNR in and 110db SNR out.

Just be aware, you may need to use the rear headphone jack for best results with high end headphones. These usually have a more powerful amplifier than the front panel connections.
 
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