Sound Cards

You’ve already decided on the graphics card so that playing 3D games would be more realistic. However with 3D and/or surround sound, it could really create a truly immersive gaming experiences for you and friends. Selecting some of the best sound cards from the mediocre ones can truly make all the difference.

 

Sound Card Buying Guide

1) Sampling Rates

This refers to the maximum amount of sound data that a sound card can process per second, measured in Hertz (Hz). The higher the sampling rates, the more accurate is the sound with respect to the original analogue sound. For basic CD standard, the sampling rate is 44.1 kHz while DVD at highest grade quality requires sampling rates of 96 kHz.

2) Bit Rates (Resolution)

This refers to the number of bits stored in each sound data. Sampling rates and bit rates go hand in hand. The higher the resolution, the more accurate is the digital recording. For CD-quality sound, a minimum of 16-bit code is required. High quality systems such as DVD could go all the way to 20-bit and 24-bit codes.

** Example: Any sound card with base specifications > 16-bit code & 44.1 kHz can handle CD quality playback.

3) Channels

We’re referring to the number of external computer speakers that the sound card can support. Nowadays it is common to see 5.1 channel surround sound audio especially if truly immersive 3D gaming experiences are needed. Unless you just want to playback using headphones only, shoot for sound cards that support at least 5.1 channels, possibly 7.1 channels.

 

Sound Card Reviews & Ratings

We found the best sound card reviews from CNET, DevHardware, Hardwarezone, PCMag and PC World. Expert reviewers there reviewed some of the best sound card models from well-known and outstanding makers such as Creative, Echo, M-Audio and Tascam. Sound card ratings based on audio quality determines the best sound cards in their respectively class.

Best Sound Card (Notebook)

Sound Card Reviews #1: Opening up a whole new era in notebook audio with interesting sound card reviews from users is the best rated Creative Labs PCMCIA Sound Blaster Audigy 2 ZS Notebook. For truly surround sound effects, this Creative sound card will totally immerse you with the occasion. This best sound card from Creative features THX-certified 24-bit/192kHz audio format with 104 db SNR audio quality for truly rich, high-fidelity and crystal clear audio. 7.1 surround sound channels with support for CMSS 3D / DirectSound 3D / Dolby Digital EX / DTS-ES makes for great games, music and video enjoyment. With EAX Advanced HD 4.0 to further boost sound quality, notebook audio just got better.

Best Sound Card (PC)

Sound Card Reviews #2: Setting the benchmark in PC audio with impressive sound card reviews from reviewers and users is the best rated Creative Sound Blaster Audigy 2 ZS Platinum Pro Sound Card. Make your PC scream in delight with this Creative sound card. This best sound card from Creative features 24-bit/96kHz audio format with 108 db SNR audio quality for truly pristine, rich audio of unsurpassed clarity. 7.1 surround sound channels with support for Dolby Digital Ex / DTS-ES makes for an interesting PC audio experiences.

Best Sound Card (Multimedia, Gamers)

Sound Card Reviews #3: Propelling PC gaming audio to a whole new level with splendid sound card reviews from professional reviewers and hardcore gamers is the best rated Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi XtremeGamer Fatal1ty Pro Series Sound Card. For the ultimate satisfaction in audio creation and home entertainment, look no further than this Creative sound card to rock you on. This best sound card from Creative features 24-bit/192kHz audio format with 109 db SNR audio quality including 64 MB X-RAM for stunning, unbelievable audio realism in high performance gaming. Supports EAX Advanced HD 5.0 and together with X-Fi CMSS-3D and X-Fi Crystalizer technologies, PC gamers never had it better.

Resources: Sound Card (Wikipedia)