Onboard sound - is it CPU intensive?

[redryder]

I just bought a MSI Neo2 Platinum board. Just wondering if I use the onboard sound will it be CPU intensive and slow down my gaming experience? Sound quality doesn't matter to me, and I'm using headphones so I only require 2 channel sound anyway.

I also have an aging Soundblaster Live value card (> 5yrs old). In terms of CPU usage, would I be better off plugging in the SBlive instead of using the motherboard's onboard sound?

thanks in advance!

 

[MiranoPoncho]

I'd have to say, Althiough it wont affect your fps too much, it should speed things up, as , if memory serves, the msi uses the ac 97 codec. should be fine, and all is well. gluck on gaming!

 

[boyRacer]

With todays CPUs it doesn't matter. If you're happy with the crappy quality then go for it. 🙂

 

[UlricT]

if 2-3 fps matters to you.. then yes! Use the SBlive... but I think the onboard might give you better sound... since the EMU10K is messed up...

But you might as well plug in the SBLive if you want... it ain't that bad... 🙂 and its got your EAX support.

2.1 Or 5.1 sound (speakers)?

 

[Brian23]

how is the EMU10K messed up? Shouldn't it have better sound quality compaired to AC97?

 

[Googer]

Depending on the number of channels used, the sound format and the quality settings, Expect about 10-13% of you cpu's time to go to procsseing MP3 audio; and less for CD Quality 16bit PCM @ 44,100hz will use 6 to 12%. Higher quality 96,000hz 24bit multi-channel DVD audio will use much more of your cpu's resourses.