Looking for a new Sound Card

[Whitebread]

I'm currently using an EMU-0404 and I'm dissatisfied with its sound stage presentation and muddy(ish) lower midrange and midbass. Comparatively, my Samsung YP-9T is a MUCH better compliment to my M3/HD650 home rig.

I'd like something with a wider, deeper sound stage and tighter/crisper midrange and midbass. I do not want something with an analytical sound.

The source can be either an internal sound card or an external DAC since I absolutely never play computer games.

Buying an EMU-1212M crossed my mind, but I worried that if I stay within the same product line, I may end up with a similar sound. Does anyone have any experience with this sound card?

What about the M-Audio Audiophile or Revolution series?

Thanks

[infinitesymphony]

I have the 0404 USB and the 1212M. The 1212M is warmer, but still very detailed and revealing. The two use completely different DAC chips and sections (AKM AK4396 vs. Cirrus CS4398).

You might also consider the ASUS Xonar D2, as it uses a warmer-sounding chip, the "advanced segment" Burr-Brown PCM1794.

[Whitebread]

Ok, thanks. I might consider keeping the 0404 and building an external DAC as well.

[Hookem]

You might look at the Audiotrak Prodigy HD2.

Replaceable op amps...Head phone pre-amp...It is a stereo only card...But it uses the VIA Envy ICE chip and Wolfson DAC.

AUDIOTRAK - Prodigy HD2

I would have one except the are back ordered from audiotrak until mid-May.