PC Audio - new build question

[AndrewNL]

Hello everyone, 
 
I am in the process of building a PC and things have changed a lot since I last owned a PC (I have been using a Mac for the last 10 years, but I am heading back to PC) and so I would like some advice on the audio side of things. The question is, what would be my best investment to improve the audio for gaming and casual music listening. 
 
95% of the time I have my Audio Technica ATH-AD700 connected to my current iMac via a MixAmp which made a difference for FPS gaming over the out of iMac sound. My MixAmp is on its way out - its crackling at lower volumes so I am not sure how much more use I will get out of it (and I know it's not a great amp anyway, but I got it dirt cheap secondhand and it did make a noticeable difference in gaming).
 
So, my new PC has a mobo with "7.1 CH HD Audio Realtek ALC1150 Audio Codec, Supports Purity Sound™ 3 & DTS Connect". Would buying a sound card like the Sound Blaster Z for use with the AD700s improve the gaming experience (in terms of positional audio)? Or would an amp/dac have a better impact? With the latter, I am not sure whether something like the Fiio E10k Amp/Dac or the Shiit Magni 2 would have a negative or positive effect on gaming. 
 
Does anyone have any thoughts? I'd really be glad to hear them! My budget would be in the region of EUR 100, and I am happy with my AD700 because they are comfy and have a good soundstage.
 
CHeers!

 

[PurpleAngel]

I would get the Sound Blaster Z sound card.
Disable the motherboard's on-board audio, in the BIOS, when you install the add-on sound card (SB-Z).
Might as well sell off the Astro Mix-amp.

 

[stereoshift]

Agree with above, get the SB Z.
The convenience and software customization outweigh any dedicated box (amp/dac combos) and surly will satisfy your sound needs. SB Z wont have any issues driving your AD700's.
My 2 cents : ) 

 

[obobskivich]

Unless you explicitly want the simulacra software that the Z offers, there's not much point to it imho. The ALC1150 is no slouch, and assuming the board is put together right (and this has improved a lot in recent years) it should be a fine source in its own right. If you feel you need Creative's "software stuff" you can either buy their standalone package (its like $20-30) or try Razer Surround (it has a free version). Run the motherboard's outputs into an amp or dac/amp or whatever if you want to do that as well.

 

[AndrewNL]

Thanks everyone, really helpful. I the end I found a good deal on the SBZ and bought it. I'm going to try the on board audio first and if that doesn't cut it, I'll put the SBZ in. I'll report back in case any one else has a similar question in the future!