Looking for a soundcard upgrade

[ThatsMyNameDude]

I have a 2.1 logitech speakers setup and im looking for a soundcard to replace my onboard sound as an investment. The price would be around 100-200. It is for gaming and music. any recommendations?

 

[phil22]

A Creative 5.1 card would be a good choice, but you'll need to factor in the cost of a new set of 6 surround sound speakers like this: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Creative-Inspire-T6160-Speaker-System/dp/B002N41RIK/ref=sr_1_5?s=computers&ie=UTF8&qid=1351522510&sr=1-5 to replace your existing 3 speakers.

They will give you awesome, full-bodied and rich sound from DVD-Video, music tracks and gameplay.

 

[batuchka]

I would really suggest moving up to better speakers rather than $200 sound card mated with Logitechs...

 

[Xenturion]

I'd avoid any of the low-price Asus Xonar cards. After having just purchased the DS1, I was exceedingly disappointed. I've got a fairly discerning ear, and if anything, it sounded worse than my on-board sound. Now, I have an enthusiast class motherboard, so the Realtek codec used is no slouch, but it certainly isn't perfect either. In terms of general sound quality, if you're simply looking to improve your 2.1 setup, then I'd recommend one of Creatives older X-Fi generation of cards. They can be had for reasonable prices and all offer fairly stellar sound quality. For just under $200 you could land yourself one of Creatives new Core3D cards and a nice set of 5.1 speakers or a 5.1 headset. 5.1 makes a huge difference in games in my opinion and adds a whole new dimensionality to First Person Shooters specifically. I've got a few specific memories of it getting me points I wouldn't have gotten otherwise.