Which is better???

[DukeT]

Alrite i need to know which is better for gaming and a little music listening, the SoundBlaster Live! X-Gamer 5.1 or the SoundBlaster Live! Mp3+ 5.1? Or if there are any better cards i would also like to know.

 

[MasterHoss]

Both cards are exactly the same--just different software bundle. I think the gamer has the better bundle...games--no silly software that you'll not use (like the MP3+).

Better cards...I seem to have noticed a big difference in sound when I tried the Santa Cruz (over the SB Live! 5.1 MP3+). Returned the Santa Cruz because they didn't have real drivers for WinMe Win2k back then. Also a big difference with my Hercules Game Theater XP (now has working drivers for both OSs). I love it...big difference in sound. Still wouldn't mind the SB Live! 5.1 family cards however.

Lots of people hate the SB Live! because there is a hit and miss bug with the card and one of the VIA southbridges.

 

[AmdEmAll]

They are the same exact card. Xgamer just comes with a Game bundle and the MP3 comes with mp3, ripping software. Get a Turtle Beach Santa Cruz it is much better but cost a few more bucks.

 

[AmdEmAll]

Damn masterhoss! I'm to slow.

 

[whitelight]

best performance for your buck will probably be the santa cruz. i personally like the philip's acoustic edge. search for some reviews on these cards to get a better idea of why they're so good.