Choosing souncard and speakers (after "research")

[magx]

Hello.
Im looking for a decent audio setup for my new desktop computer(going to run Vist64 if its matter). The budget is around 200$-250$. I mostly listen to music but i play some games too(70% music, 30% gaming). I listen to all kind of music(from rap/trance to classic, folk etc...). After research here is what i came up with:

Soundcard:
E-Mu 0404 PCI
Asus Xonar DX

Speakers:
Behringer MS40
M-Audio AV40
AudioEngine A2

Im having hard time narrowing it to the actual setup although im leaning toward Asus Xonar DX/AudioEngine A2.

What is your opinion ? Im open to suggestions for items i did not include here as long as its around my budget.

Thx.

Edit:
I also would like to know if i should buy additional high quality cables or it wont be necessary ? If yes, which cables to get ?

 

[punk_guy182]

I've heard good comments about the M-Audio AV40.

 

[euphoracle]

I love them except the volume knob. It's giving me a bit of grief.

 

[Alai]

I would also throw in the Swan D1080MKII as runner-ups.

 

[magx]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alai /img/forum/go_quote.gif I would also throw in the Swan D1080MKII as runner-ups.

I cant get Swan in my area ...

 

[koven]

how about the Alesis 520's

 

[magx]

Quote:

Originally Posted by koven /img/forum/go_quote.gif how about the Alesis 520's

way over my budget(in my area at least).
I realy doubt there is active speakers that can enter my budget which is better then those 3 i mentioned ...

 

[freakydrew]

Anitec.ca - Asus Xonar HDAV1.3 Deluxe HDMI 1.3 Audio/Video Enhancement with 7.1 Channel Analog Output

this is in CDN $ so not sure about conversion in your area. I have heard this on a PC with cans and am now saving up for one.

 

[homers54321]

The Audioengine A5 fits into your budget if you use coupon code MW09.

Is size a factor? The A2's are very small and are good for near-field listening. The AV40 are a bit bigger and the A5's are much bigger.

Honestly, I don't think you can go wrong with either the A2, A5, or AV40. All 3 are well regarded. Just depends on size and whether you intend on using in a small or large room.

 

[magx]

Quote:

Originally Posted by homers54321 /img/forum/go_quote.gif The Audioengine A5 fits into your budget if you use coupon code MW09. Is size a factor? The A2's are very small and are good for near-field listening. The AV40 are a bit bigger and the A5's are much bigger. Honestly, I don't think you can go wrong with either the A2, A5, or AV40. All 3 are well regarded. Just depends on size and whether you intend on using in a small or large room.

Size isnt an issue. A5 cost double from the A2 in my area, so A5 are out of budget.
Both AV40 and A2 sounds greate and cost the same for me , i just cant decide between them. If someone listen to them both and give his opinion it can be greate ...