Sound card for WinXP, Via chipset

[sps]

What's the best inexpensive sound card for Win XP Pro and a Via chipset (MSI K7T Pro 2A)? I don't play games and I don't watch DVDs on this setup so I don't need 5.1 channel sound. I just want a soundcard that sounds good and has very stable drivers in this environment. I definitely want to stay under $50.

Thanks!

 

[TheCorm]

Hercules Fortissimo or Soundblaster Player 5.1?

 

[ojai00]

I have a Turtle Beach Santa Cruz that can support 6.1. While it retails for about $60 or $70, you can find some places that have it for about $50 (with or without coupons).

 

[sps]

How about a Turtle Beach Montego II or a Guillemot Muse XL? Are these any good in terms of Via compatability and XP drivers?

 

[pillage2001]

Not playing games?? Go with the santa cruz.

 

[sps]

Is the Santa Cruz really so good as to warrant the extra money vs. a cheaper card when I won't use the 5.1 channel output? I really just want a cheap card with excellent drivers. The only reason I want one is that I am having locking up problems in XP when playing MP3s with the onboard Via audio and the only thing I can think to do is try a new card.

 

[jaeger66]

I vote SC. It's drivers are as stable as they come. If you can't swing the $60, look into one of the Herc cards that is CS4624 based. The Fortissimo 2 I think is the one. Stay the hell away from Creative if stability is paramount.

 

[SP33Demon]

I'd say go with the $55 shipped SB Audigy deal over in Hot Deals from tcwo.com (and they even sent me lifesavers with the deal! )

You'll spend $5 over your limit, but so what, you'll also have 5.1 sound if you ever want to upgrade in the future. Can't beat that deal for soundcards IMO.