[davidw89]

I need a decent sound card that supports Vista X64 (that rules out Creative) made for music/movies, not for gaming. Hopefully it supports latest stuff like DTS. Looking to spend about $100-$150. I think the new ASUS might fit the bill but i want something audiophile.

Currently have a X540 5.1 speaker but it's average so i am giving it to my mum : D. What audiophile 5.1 speaker available that will fit on my computer table. Currently looking at the Z5500 but that's made for gaming. What are the best connectors for high quality audio? SPDIF vs Coax?

So let's just assume you have ~$500 to invest on a new sound card + 5.1 speakers for you new computer. What would you go?

Btw might be getting a portable amplifier in the future..will this be able to additionally power the speaker?

 

[episteme]

Mmm. I'd get the Asus Xonar, I have one and it sounds great. The Z-5500 doesn't need an apmlifier, but as far as I know it's hardlyan audiophile-quality speaker :S

 

[davidw89]

What do you guys think of this:
Yamaha Music Australia - Audio Visual - Home Theatre Packages
No sound card, as motherboard can do coax and optical.

 

[davidw89]

Common guys help me out!!!!!!!!!!

 

[TaZ82]

Well, I do not think that audiophile speakers come as 5.1s but the Z5500 is your best bet. Reason being it is a neat and tidy package. It has its own decoder which will save you the trouble of getting an external set.
However $500 is too little for the Z5500 and a soundcard right?
If you want some audiophile quality speakers, do give the Audioengine A2, A5 and Aego M a listen. Hope it helps.

 

[episteme]

Well actually a Xonar + Z-5500 should be about.... 350~400.

 

[davidw89]

Well actually the Z5500 is more for gaming..a

What about the Yamaha YHT 195?