Onboard audio v. Creative Sound Blaster Audigy SE 7.1

[Ryker]

I'm buying a new computer, and am also wavering whether to buy a dedicated sound card or not. I have these Phillips MMS171 2.1 speakers and will have this Asus P8P67-M motherboard. With these two pieces of hardware, am I even going to hear any difference if I buy the Sound Blaster rather than just stick with the plain old onboard sound card?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Ubrales]

On my motherboard, I got rid of the Creative X-Fi card and am now using the on-board sound. The Bose desktop speakers sound fine.

Checkout the on-board sound before you buy the sound card.

 

[Ryker]

Yeah, I guess that would be the most sensible option, the only "problem" is someone else is building the system for me, as I just don't know how to do it myself. Therefore I was hoping to make that decision prior to getting that done.

 

[Ubrales]

Checkout the on-board sound first. To add a sound card, if you need one, is a simple task.

My ears are not good enough to pick out subtle differences in sound quality. That's why I suggested that you checkout the on-board sound first.

 

[Ryker]

Yeah, I guess, although I always seem to just get used to the sound, whatever it is. I listen to music all the time, though, so that's why I was thinking of maybe actually trying to get used to a better quality of sound, if that makes sense.

And as for adding a sound card, I don't know, I've never done it before, and am a bit apprehensive of my skills. I guess I could do it, but then, since I live in Canada, shipping costs are going to amount to a third of the final price.

 

[Ubrales]

Here are some sound cards from Newegg Canada: http://www.newegg.ca/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&DEPA=0&Order=BESTMATCH&Description=sound+card+pci&x=15&y=33

Creative is a good brand.

I am not trying to talk you into installing this on your own. Decide after you watch some videos on YouTube regarding PCI card installation. Familiarity with PCI slots is a must.

There is an advantage of buying the PC with the sound card installed. That is, in case of any malfunction, you can refer the matter to the builder (store).

 

[Ryker]

Best answer selected by Ryker.

 

[Ryker]

Alright, thanks for the help. I decided to go with the sound card, and got it for a reduced price of about $24. I haven't received the computer yet, so I can't comment on the difference in sound.

 

[sportsfanboy]

Onboard sound is fine unless you have highish or high end speakers, save the money and use the onboard sound.

 

[Ryker]

Yeah, like I said, I already bought it now.

 

[sportsfanboy]

Ah, didn't see that sorry

 

[Ubrales]

Thank you! For $24 you can't go wrong with a good sound card! Enjoy it.

 

[sportsfanboy]

lol