[Jester]

Ok I know everyone hates these types of threads, but I've got a problem.... I've been thinking and I've got a couple questions.

First.
Are sound cards worth it? I've got a newer 780i motherboard from EVGA with Realtek HD Audio, and how does the on board audio compare to a sound card? Some people say that on board audio is just fine and its not worth adding a sound card. My question is directed to those of you who have replaced their on board sound with a card.

Second.
Which brand is better? I know Turtle Beach used to be really good as did Creative Labs(not limiting this question just to these brands), but Creative seems to have recently had bad customer support(so I've read).

So there are the questions. I enjoy some gaming, music and the occasional movie.
Thanks to all who respond.

[Jelly Bean]

Hello Jester.

I use onboard sound but I also use 50 watt speakers with subwoofer.My sound is pritty good so my neigbours across the street from me tell.

The question should be added why replace your sound card if you are using low rated speakers?

[Jester]

The speakers I have now are Klipsch Pro Media 2.1.
I'm thinking of maybe in the future buying some nicer Bose speakers though.

[Jelly Bean]

So are we looking at 2.1 or higher like 5.1 or 7.1speakers?

The same applies to sound cars the higher spec the more expencive?

The idea is also how do you like your music and game play?Loud or booming?

What you need to consider is parents if you live at home and the neighbours?

Idea on prices:Newegg.com - Sound Cards, Audio Sound Card, Creative Labs Sound Cards, USB Sound Card, 5.1 Sound Cards, External Sound Cards, PCI sound Cards

Newegg.com - Sound Cards, Sound Blaster Cards, Creative Sound Cards, Computer Sound Cards, Audigy Sound Cards, M Audio Sound Cards

[Jester]

When I eventually get some nicer speakers, I want at least 5.1 channels for movies and such. I want it loud and booming and clear for the movies. Basically home theater system run off of my PC. I'm not concerned about parents or neighbors right now. What I'm doing is slowly building a computer that will be able to do anything I want it to do...and I won't need a separate DVD player or TV.

I want to be able to consider all my options, so I'm not concerned about price yet. I also don't know exactly what I want to spend yet. My on board audio has 7.1 channels now along with an optical out.

[Jelly Bean]

Ok I would normaly just go for sound blaster in my area ppl go cheap however have you tried ASUS cards?

[Jester]

No I've never tried ASUS cards. My dad used to have an old old sound blaster card on one of his PCs, but that was when on board audio was horrible.