Well things like G.Sniper are great ideas. However as said, that adds noise to the sound and honestly it doesn't cost much to get a X-fi. So maybe sound cards would still be a better choice right now. 

That really depends on your budget. If you are looking at something at the same price as AP2496 then I would so no. Another problem is AP2496 is famous for it's analogue output but not digital. You might need a better digital out if you really consider putting in a DAC.