Integrated SC or dedidicated card

[machine67891234]

Hello, What the difference between running off an integrated sound card in the motherboard versus having a dedicated sound card? The motherboard and speakers I'm looking at are below. Would having a dedicated sound card be a worthwhile upgrade? I'm primarily going to be using the system for games, but also like to listen to music and surf the internet as well. Appreciate the help!

Also does anyone have any experience with BIOSTAR motherboards? How reliable?

119.99
BIOSTAR TZ77XE3 LGA 1155 Intel Z77 HDMI SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 ATX Intel Motherboard with UEFI BIOS
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813138355

29.99
Logitech LS21 7 Watts RMS (FTC) 2.1 Stereo Speaker System - Black
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16836121019

 

[machine67891234]

I should add that the chipset in the motherboard is

8 Channels
Realtek ALC892

 

[Idonno]

With those speakers, you should stick to your onboard.

Unless you are planning to spend a minimum of $200 on speakers or around $100 on headphones you won't gain much (if any) benefit.

A high quality sound card for say $175 - $250 or so can make a big difference in sound quality but, only if the rest of the components (amp, speakers, headphones) can preform at the same level.

A medium quality sound card for say $75 - $175 or so make's less of a difference in sound quality and again you have to have other components to match.

Once you get below $50 your not really getting anything better than onboard and certainly nothing you will be able to hear over those speakers.

The value of sound quality is very subjective anyway. If your only looking to spend about another $50 - $75 on a soundcard, the additional money would have a far greater impact on sound quality if it were spent on better speakers or headphones than the same amount spent on a soundcard.