Audigy 2 zs on 4.1 setup?

[CJP]

I'm going to be upgrading my system later on this year but I'm going to keep my Logitech z-560 4.1 speakers. Currently I have an Audigy Gamer soundcard. Does the Audigy 2 zs offer much over the support for the extra speakers (7.1) or should I just keep my Audigy Gamer card?

 

[Auric]

The primary hardware difference besides increased surround support is improved analog SNR (108 versus 100dB) and a dedicated always-on digital output jack. With such an amp/speakers (with relatively low SNR of their own), the quality difference may not be noticeable. Cost aside, you could save yourself some messin' by just keeping the Audigy and perhaps installing the much superior Audigy 2 software if you have not done so already. With a bit of messin' you could actually buy an Audigy 2 ZS, hock the included games (as it is retail only at the mo') and the old Audigy and prolly break even and end up with the better card. The software guides can be found via google or the likes of 3dsoundsurge.

p.s. if you are upgrading later this year, you have eight days left, unless you are not on the Gregorian calendar!