[Critical50]

I read its for a DAC but..isnt my soundcard already a DAC?

 

[Critical50]

Also, Im still learning things about audio. And different components. So sorry if this is a noob question.

 

[MindsMirror]

You could use it to connect an external DAC, possibly as an upgrade. It could send 7.1 channel audio to a receiver. You could use it to send 5.1 also, one optical cable is much neater than 3 analog cables. Of course you can just use the card's DAC and analog outputs if you want, having options to do either is nice though. You can also use both analog and digital outputs at once which might be useful for someone.

 

[Critical50]

How do I make sure the surround sound options are on for when I use headphones? Do I need any extra wires besides just plugging in my headphones?

 

[MindsMirror]

I don't believe you said which card, but I assume your asking about the SoundBlaster Z? You only need to plug the headphones into the headphone output. In the Sound Blaster software, check that it is on headphone mode. Under the SBX pro studio menu you can enable the surround and other processing options if you want them.

 

[Critical50]

Yes, its the Z. Just making sure I have all that on and working. Thanks.