Question from computer user

[muncher]

Hey all.
I just bought myself my first sound system which I plan to build up over the netx few years. I got a Denon 1804 reciever and a pair of Energy C3 with stands. I have a problem because most of my music and movie watching comes from my computer. I currently have a pretty cheap soundblaster live value card which I plan to replace. However, I'm not sure which new soundcard I should get. The standard audigy2 card from SB has the same features as the 200 dollar platinum version except it does not have Coax/Optical out. Should I spend the extra money for this? Thanks! Also, if anyone knows a good forum here about wires and such please hook me up!

 

[Unregistered]

You are definitely going to want a card that has s/pdif out - either optical or coaxial.

The Audigy 2 ZS is the best bang for the buck if you want to stay with SoundBlaster. The Turtle Beach Santa Cruz is a decent card (I have one) but is getting a bit old. TB also has a few new cards, Riviera and Catalina that you could look into. For a professional level sound card look at M-Audio. I think Audioholics recently reviewed the newest version of that card.

Read any reviews you can find, here or http://www.extremetech to help you make a decision.

 

[Rob Babcock]

I'm thinking of getting the Audigy, too. Pretty highly recommended by most of my computer-wise aquaintences.

 

[Rÿche 1]

I use a Hercules Fortissimo 7.1 card. It has an optical output. I paid like $50 a year ago for it.