Best PCIe soundcard for a Win 7 system

jaco_52

Honorable
Feb 18, 2012
1
0
10,510
Hello,
Looking for the best PCIe soundcard for a Win 7 system. Audiophile, some gaming, some movies --under 200$.
 

Bordee

Distinguished
Nov 20, 2010
14
0
18,520
I own an Asus Xonar Essence ST soundcard, I am extremely pleased with its performance in both Windows7 and LInux. It is great for listening to audiophile quality music and gaming. You can currently get one for under $200 on Amazaon
http://www.amazon.com/Xonar-Essence-Headphone-7-1-Channel-Audiophiles/dp/B002BZIZ04

I previously had the Asus Xonar DS, a good budget soundcard, and I've noticed a huge difference between the DS and the Essence ST. The Essence ST has a headphone jack, which powers a pair of cans well. Also, the Asus Control Center allows for Dolby Surround Headphones for Gaming.