Audio card suggestions

[maumastoks]

Hello.

I'm currently using Audio-Technica ATM M-50s headphones and have finally decided to invest some cash into the audio output from my computer.

Now the main question:
Should I get PCI-E or USB output device?
USB has some advantages - can use on my laptop aswell (I'm using a desktop and a laptop, mainly the desktop, though), easier to access, easy volume control. Just want to know, are PCI-E cards WAY better than USB ones (in other words, do USB devices deliver worse quality of audio)
I was looking at creative sound blaster range. Anyone has any recommendations?

 

[connieflyer]

I have been using this card with my Sens 650's and a Harmon-Kardon avr 510 with the rca outs love it. Came from the creative cards, got tired of the lousy drivers. http://www.asus.com/us/Sound_Cards_and_DigitaltoAnalog_Converters/Xonar_Essence_STX/

 

[jinjuku]

I run a PCIe card and like it due to reduced clutter but you can do very well with USB devices. Just keep in mind if using the generic USB sound card support via Windows you max out at 24/96. Anything higher will require custom drivers from the manufacturer.

 

[tmurnin]

Love my AudioEngine DAC

 

[jcunwired]

I have been using this card with my Sens 650's and a Harmon-Kardon avr 510 with the rca outs love it. Came from the creative cards, got tired of the lousy drivers. Xonar Essence STX - Sound Cards and Digital-to-Analog Converters - ASUS

I use the same card with Sennheiser RS170, also connected to a Denon AVR-2313CI via RCA. I'm set for the long haul, can't imagine it getting much better.

 

[slipperybidness]

I personally prefer external DAC to internal S/C.

If you decide on S/C, then that ASUS Xonar would be the choice for me.

XDA-2 USB DAC/Digital Preamp/Headphone Amp | Emotiva Audio Corporation | Emotiva Audio | High-end audio components for audiophiles and videophiles, spanning 2-channel music systems, as well as 5.1 and 7.1 home theaters. Products include multichannel

 

[maumastoks]

Okay, I think I'll go for an external DAC.

Can you guys list some proper external DAC models/manufacturers? If listing an exact model, keep in mind the source is computer and the casing shouldn't be too huge

 

[steelydanfan]

late reply here, just joined this forum. I am in the same boat, looking for an external DAC. Musical Fidelity , Cambridge Audio, and Schiit ( not kidding) all manufacture multiple DAC's , from budget to beyond.....

 

[steelydanfan]

I am also looking at external DAC's to link up to my computer music server. I won't be doing any video. I already have a whole house stereo background system with 6 volume controlled zones in place. I have been using 2 Sony CD changers daisy-linked w/ a 12V trigger switch. The sound is great, I just want to better organize all my extensive music library and make playlists, etc.

Most of my CD's are in itunes , imported using apple lossless.

I don't know whether to stream from my main laptop using a wireless streaming device to an external DAC before going into my Onkyo home system receiver, or just dedicate an unused laptop as my music server in my audio closet where the home audio system is located.

I am somewhat of an audiophile, CD quality sound is a must. That's why I have waited this long to jump in. My CD changers are 10-13 years old and are showing their age after all these years of use.

Thanks for your thoughts !