Which Audigy 2 to get?

[cpush]

I have decided to incorporate an audigy soundcard into my new build, primarily to lighten the cpu load when playing hl2. I have read in other forums that with the audigy 2 value oem you are not supplied a control panel for things such as equalizers and bass control, all that good stuff. Is this true? Is it worth the extra 15 or so dollars to go with the retail? Here they are listed:

http://www2.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16829102175
Retail $62.00, 20 mail in rebate

http://www2.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16829102179
OEM $49.99

I'm just confused where the retail lists "Channels 24-bit 96KHz"
And the OEM lists "Channels 24-bit 192KHz"

Whats up w that?

Also, the concern with the value is no software included and running into this problem:
http://discuss.futuremark.com/forum/sho...0&view=collapsed&sb=5&o=0&fpart=1&vc=1

 

[airfoil]

If you dont mind the MIR wait, get the retail - at $2.00 more its worth it. The difference between the two is the software bundle that ships with the retail version.

 

[imported_bum]

You could also look at the OEM Audigy 2 (normal or ZS?) for under 70 bucks. Personally I don't care for the software, but it is worth a couple bucks.

If you live near a Fry's store, you can get the Audigy 2 ZS gamer for 60 bucks with rebate. Its also 80 bucks at Outpost.

 

[cpush]

what advantage does the zs gamer have, I definitely dont need the firewire or front panel stuff