[tgunner]

I am currently using a Creative Soundblaster LIVE! soundcard, and am wondering if there is anything out ther in the sub $40 price range, for excellent 2 channel analog playback? I will be using my Altec Lansing 2.1 system, or Harman Kardon HK-3480Z for enjoyment.

 

[terrymx]

you will definitely want to get the Chaintech Av710, highly regard around here. excellent value. its only $25, but blow away the soundblaster for music purpose.

 

[TURBO]

and the 1212m (E-mu), is the mother of all.

 

[Mr.Radar]

Quote:

Originally Posted by TURBO and the 1212m (E-mu), is the mother of all.

Not necessarily. There are cards that best the 1212m (like the RME HDSP 9632), but they're in the >$500 range where an external DAC becomes a better value.

 

[tgunner]

Hey!
Just bought the AV710 today, $25.99 with free Fed-Ex at Zip, Zoom, Fly!! Let you all know when I get it.

 

[funnytimes]

Quote:

Originally Posted by tgunner Hey! Just bought the AV710 today, $25.99 with free Fed-Ex at Zip, Zoom, Fly!! Let you all know when I get it.

ditto

 

[tgunner]

Recieved the card today, hard getting new drivers, but it is now working fine. I really haven't noticed a huge differance yet, will do more testing!

 

[aphex944]

Make sure you're using the correct output with the higher quality Wolfson DAC, follow the setup instructions here: http://users.skynet.be/fa449939/The%...ch%20Guide.htm

 

[llmobll]

Quote:

Originally Posted by tgunner Recieved the card today, hard getting new drivers, but it is now working fine. I really haven't noticed a huge differance yet, will do more testing!

Maybe cause there isn't that big of a difference. From Live the chaintech is a bit more detailed yet not as agressive. This would be good if you listened to jazz or classical, but rock/rap/electronic, this card doesn't shine. But then again i'm in the majority around here on this opinion.


yet i have to advise that to make the av710 perform at it's best, you need to use the EQ in foobar, this is a must!!! Also a amp is required!!!! i know this has been stated soo many times, but it needs an amp. Even if it's a CMOY, it needs an amp!!

 

[uzziah]

i think the simple truth is:
you need better speakers or phones, man. it's about time to ask the grand old "how much do you want to spend" question

 

[tgunner]

Well, I do usually only listen to rock, and my speakers are just fine, they are Altec Lansing 2100's,
http://www.alteclansing.com/product_...s.asp?pID=2100 . I do not usually use headphones with my computer, so that is not a problem. As for drivers, I am using 442A, which didn't come with any kind of VIA Application. I use either Realplayer, or Media player 10, and want to know if there is any kind of Equalizer appliaction out there, or a VIA one?? What is the Wolfson DAC?? I only use analog output. All of you using the AV710 will have to help me out here.

 

[aphex944]

The card has a separate DAC(digital audio converter) that supports 24-bit, 96khz output, it only works using the "rear-out" plug on the card. I'd recommend using Foobar2000(http://www.foobar2000.org) for music playback, it's the most popular around here. It also has a great built-in equalizer if that's your thing.

http://www6.head-fi.org/forums/showthread.php?t=75655

Check out that link, it is a graphical setup guide for the card and Foobar2000.