Use sound card or USB connection for Digital Speakers?

[thebestMAX]

Have the Microsoft MS-80 digital speakers which will use the USB or the sound card output.

I seem to have some applications which output no sound to the USB but do to the sound card.
Is this normal?
Should I hook up both or just one?
Which is better?

Any help, comments appreciated. Manual doesnt help.

 

[Rigoletto]

I have both connections hooked up in WinME and Win2000. But the USB port is the only device it's listening to. I know this for sure, you can't run some of the advanced controls and some DVD sound options without it. I always use the USB. The tonal controls provided are quite powerful for it, and I get greater treble. Also, the buttons on the speaker are a lot more responsive with USB... they are sooooo slooooow otherwise! I like these speakers! I thought on the soundcard output the treble was poor and the satellites a bit naff. But now the sub/ sat split works really remarkably well, and the subwoofer is a real piece of class for sub-£100 stuff.

 

[Rigoletto]

I don't understand your specific problem though. You must state your OS. And have another good hunt around the control panel maybe.

 

[thebestMAX]

Thanks, R-

These have been some of my findings also but wanted to throw it out there. Speakers were rated as the "BEST" for a few weeks and I do think they are quite capable for most apps. When I hook up both, I never miss any sounds that I am aware of but am I compromising on quality? Have tried usb only, sound card only and both. Just wanted to hear from other owners.

Cant give you specifics, No real problems, just curious. Using Windows 98 with all available updates from MS web site.

Going to build a new computer and wondering if a soundcard is really necessary for games, Inet music and the like.

 

[thebestMAX]

Anybody else?