Soundblaster Audigy 2 ZS Platinum; worth my time?

[AscDrew]

Ok, this is my first posting and I'm hoping to save some time on my build. For that matter any advice on my build is appreciated, however this first posting is regarding Sound Cards.

Q: I have a Sound Blaster Audigy 2ZS (Platinum I think) (model SB0250a). I like the panel interface. Is this sound card worth my time in the build or should I stick to onboard sound from my motherboard?

Thanks!

Drew


Basic build specs:

Intel Core i7-3770k
CoolerMaster TPC812 CPU Cooler
Asus Z77 V Pro motherboard
8GB G.Skill Trident X 2400GHz RAM
Samsung 830 128gb SSD
XFX Radeon HD 6870 graphics card
750W 80+ Gold Rosewill Capstone PSU
Windows 7 Professional

 

[austinwillis81]

Unless you are a audiophile just stick to onboard sound.

 

[smorizio]

some people can tell that some sound cards are better then others. the big problem right now with creative labs right now is there not writing drivers or updating the drivers for windows. a few people starting making open source drivers for the older sb cards. at lest with the onboard sound chipset intel and other vensdors are writing updated drivers for these chipsets.

 

[gamerk316]

Speaking in terms of pure audio quality, onboard chipsets offer a cleaner signal then most of hte Audigy line.

That being said, onboard audio is VERY flat, even with a clean signal, so despite being "worse", the Audigy may still sound better.

 

[mi1ez]

If you can get drivers sorted, go for it. If you expect decent drivers, stick with the onboard.

 

[whooleo]

Well I'm using one right now on Windows 7 x64 and all I can say is it's worth it if you have good equipment. By the way, the recent drivers on their site aren't that bad actually however the Daniel K drivers are better.