[Kingof2v1]

Hi, I have the Samson SR850's.  I am currently using onboard sound with my chipset integrated by Realtek^® ALC887 (MSI Z87-G41 PCMate 4 motherboard).  I was looking to buy a sound card. Budget is $50, and would prefer to buy used so I can get something that's actually decent.  I listen to some music and movies, but mostly use sound for competitive FPS gaming (Directional sound / sound stage is very important to me).
 
Thanks for any recommendations!

 

[PurpleAngel]

Asus Xonar DG (PCI) sound card, new $30, and there is a $10 mail in rebate this month.
$30 - $10 = $20.
Leaves you $30 from your budget to spend on something else.

 

[Kingof2v1]

Edit: I think I answered my own question

 

[Kingof2v1]

Last question.  What is the difference between this and the Xonar DX? Mainly, I'm interested in the difference between 5.1 vs 7.1 for positional audio in compeititive FPS gaming.

 

[PurpleAngel]

Quote:

Last question.  What is the difference between this and the Xonar DX? Mainly, I'm interested in the difference between 5.1 vs 7.1 for positional audio in compeititive FPS gaming.

Xonar DX, better DAC (CS4398),  but it's line-out/headphone jack is 100-Ohm and the DX does not a have a headphone amplifier (The Xonar DX did drive my DT770 Pro 80-Ohm headphones).
 
I believe the Xonar DGX (PCI-E version of the DG) comes with 7.1 channel headphone surround sound.