Sound Card opinions

[KayKay]

Well, It looks like my trusty Creative SB Live! Value 5.1 PCI card has bit the dust.

I'm currently using the DFI Karajan 7.1 On Board Audio on my Altec Lansing AVS300 2.1 Speaker setup.

I mainly use my speakers + sound card for music, I usually game with Sennheiser HDR30's or My Panasonic RP-HG20 Headphones.

Couple of questions
1]How does the sound quality of the DFI Karajan Sound compare to the SB Live! 5.1? IMO the SB was better sounding, on my speaker system.
2]I am thinking of getting the Chaintech AV710, how does that compare to the other two?
3]Your opinion on my speakers? I like them more than my brother's logitech z-340's, even though the sub is 2x the wattage.

 

[YOyoYOhowsDAjello]

1. I think they would be of similar quality. If you like one better, then there's your answer.
2. Chaintech AV-710 should give cleaner stereo output, but If you already have decent output then I'd suggest spending more on your speakers before you upgrade your soundcard.
3. Both are very basic sets. I heard the AVS300s about 4 years ago I think? I don't really remember any specifics other than thinking my friends paid $50 for them which was waaaaay too much.

 

[The Boston Dangler]

Consider not only sound quality, but since you play vid games, a sound card will take some of the load off of your system.

 

[KayKay]

personally i dislike, even hate onboard sound. I would like to get the chaintech av710, which i can get very cheaply, but i don't want to get it if it wont make much of a difference because of my speaker system.

 

[sniperruff]

plug in your headphones. if you hear static, then your on-board is crap and any sound card would help. i don't know about the DFI but on my old socket-A mobo its AC97 audio sucks. no bass/treble and it has statics as i move my mouse.