Creative AE5 RGB

[Donut]

Wanted a decent sound card, but wasn't sure about spending over $200 for one. If you're in the same boat as myself, take a look at this

 

[J. Coren]

Sound processors in motherboards are to a point where unless you are someone who is producing music or creating a system that will be used for a home theater setup or Nest, you don't really need a sound card.

The sound device one uses and the connection type are likely the most limiting factor when it comes to sound quality.

[Donut]

15 minutes ago, J. Coren said:

Sound processors in motherboards are to a point where unless you are someone who is producing music or creating a system that will be used for a home theater setup or Nest, you don't really need a sound card.

The sound device one uses and the connection type are likely the most limiting factor when it comes to sound quality.

You don't need one but there is a significant different especially in surround sound speakers and open air headphones. Basic desktop speakers will notice little to no difference.

[Taldren]

Don't need to run everything on Ultra settings either , but we still like GPU's with the horse power to do it

I wouldn't recommend it if you already have a Z-series card, but if you have onboard ... the $149 may be worth it if you have good high-impedance open-air headphones or decent speakers.

[Donut]

2 minutes ago, Taldren said:

Don't need to run everything on Ultra settings either , but we still like GPU's with the horse power to do it

I wouldn't recommend it if you already have a Z-series card, but if you have onboard ... the $149 may be worth it if you have good high-impedance open-air headphones or decent speakers.

That's exactly what is said in the video review... lol

[Boildown]

I like discrete sound cards, but this one doesn't have 7.1 audio out, so that's a disqualifier.  I seem to remember this problem with the previous generation of Sound Blasters too.