There'sa lot of great cards under $200, but most that cost over 150 are overpriced. A lot of hype went into what is call xram. It's useless so avoid paying any extra for it. And the reason it's usless is the software has to be programmed to utilize it. And since no company is gonna waste their time programming the software to use this xram, that 95% of ppl don't have, it's useless.
I recommend the Creative sb x-fi xtreme gamer, which is the one i use, it's the same as creative flagship card minus the useless xram. This card goes for about $90
I find the sound is excellent whether it's gaming or music.
Also i've had no driver issues with it and vista 64bit.