Sound Blaster Audigy

[DoobieNaq23]

These two sound cards are in my price range and I was wondering if the retail version is worth my while: Retail Sound Blaster Audigy or OEM Sound Blaster Audigy. They look the same to me, but am I overlooking something? Is there anything I need to know if I get the OEM?

 

[DarkAmeba]

Get this instead of those. It's a much nicer card, cost only a bit more, and it is retail and comes with games. ect

 

[DoobieNaq23]

I am really looking to improve the sound quality that came with this MOBO: Shuttle. Should I go with better than I suggested or will this do for basic gaming?

 

[DoobieNaq23]

Thanks darkameba for the suggestion, I was really wanting a Audigy2, but was unsure if it would be that much better than the original (for the $30 extra)?

 

[DarkAmeba]

That shuttle does not have the mcp-t. The Audigy 2 ZS is one of the best soundcards you can buy. It will be excellent for games, and a definate improvement over that shuttle's audio.

 

[DarkAmeba]

Originally posted by: DoobieNaq23
Thanks darkameba for the suggestion, I was really wanting a Audigy2, but was unsure if it would be that much better than the original (for the $30 extra)?

ZS vs regular audigy differences: ZS has a better snr, and it supports 7.1 and newer EAX formats.

If you're looking to save $$$, you want the regular audigy 2, not the cards you linked to.

EDIT:
imo, the ZS is worth the extra bit of cash

 

[DoobieNaq23]

Thank you very much. I am a new-B can you tell?