PC 2.1 speakers and soundcard advice (Novice)

[smtwidle]

Hello all,

Recently I am building a new gaming/media rig. It will be capable of blu-ray playback. To make a long story short, I am not too technically proficient in terms of audio, but I know I want to invest in some decent 2.1 speakers, and a sound card to get the most out of my playback

These are two options I was looking at, my budget for the speakers+sound card is around $300 for both, preferably less. (Sorry it is not letting me post links yet.)

Logitech Z623 2.1 (124.99 Amazon)

ASUS PCI-Express x1 Sound Card XONAR ESSENCE STX/90-YAA0C0-0UAN00Z
(169.99 Amazon) Probably could find cheaper.

These are no way set, just two that I found. If anyone has other reccomendations I would love to hear them. Also if this thread is in the wrong forum please feel free to relocate it.

Thank you all! And please go easy on a novice.

 

[BoredSysAdmin]

This sound card:
Newegg.com - ASUS Xonar DGX 5.1 Channels 24-bit 96KHz PCI Express x1 Interface Gaming Audio Card
Anything over this will be wasted money.

I'm not big fan of ANY logitech speakers, but if you want a decent 2.1 system this one might be your ticket:
Amazon.com: Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 THX Certified Computer Speaker System (Black): Electronics

However I'd highly recommend that you step up in sound quality and go for 2.0 for now and add sub then budget allow - get this pro monitors:
Amazon.com: Behringer Truth B1030a High-Resolution, Active 2-Way Reference Studio Monitor (Single Speaker): Musical Instruments

 

[sholling]

For pure gaming the $40 Asus should be fine but I'd consider going with a bit better Asus card if you plan on music and/or movies. I use this one and it would be a great choice if you just plan to use computer speakers.

Newegg.com - ASUS Xonar DX 7.1 Channels PCI Express x1 Interface Sound Card

I've never heard the Logitech Z643 but I always liked the Klipsch Promedia 2.1 ($150) for gaming so you might want to give both a try at your local store.

I'd only step up to the high-buck card if the I were planning to drive active studio monitors like Beringers B1030A or Audioengine A5 and a separate subwoofer in which case I would step up to the STX or an HT Omega Claro but the HT Omega Claro is more of a Music card than a gaming card.

Audioengine A5+ Black (Pr.) - Open Box Powered Bookshelf Speakers, In Stock at OneCall.com
Elemental Designs: Car Stereo, Home Speakers, Electronics