Realtek 889A, opinions

[alkemyst]

In the past I learned that on-board sound even if clean usually cost a noticeable frame rate reduction...it seems with dual+ cores this is not an issue.

My problem is almost all new motherboards I am looking at to go to a e8400 or Phenom 550/720 are limited to two PCI slots. I have a PCI SCSI card, wireless, and my soundcard. However they seem to have the higher-end Realtek 889A built in.

To go PCI-E on the SCSI will be brain damage...the wireless or audio option will cost $50-70 roughly which would double my upgrade cost once I sell my existing items (I am looking to move from my current system to the new one for $50 once I sell my old gear).

I don't have a problem spending the $50, but if it's not going to be tangible...why bother...it's like running 12GB under XP 32bit.

I use Z2300's for now, I liked my Altec Lansing ADA885THX's more....I may upgrade to Klipsch down the road (it's what I use for my real audio/home theatre).


Thanks.

 

[ViRGE]

So, uh, what's the question?

 

[alkemyst]

will the Realtek 889A be a step down/up/sideways to my old Santa Cruz?

 

[ViRGE]

A step down. It's not a bad on-board audio chip, but it's still on-board audio. If you're using analog, it's not going to be as free of noise and distortion as a dedicated audio card.

 

[alkemyst]

thanks...do you have a source for any kind of review? I am a bit particular to audio. I don't need the best, but I don't want to hear artifacts and static/buzzing.

My HT is Klipsch Acadamy, Quartets and RS25 surrounds, Yamaha 5960, CCD665. My car is CDT CL62i/25's, Kenwood KDC-X990, ID10v3 subs and a MB Quart RAA4200....plus a ton of damplifier and foam

I only have logitech Z2300 due to buying them for a component failure, I plan to eventually go 5.1 in this room with in wall wiring (once winter comes someday )