Upgrading audio quality on ThinkPad W520

[styylus]

I just purchased a new ThinkPad W520 and the audio quality is less than stellar (worse it seems, somehow, than my old T60p). anyway, I use the line out to connect to a Sony receiver with external speakers, and it seems like the primary issue is the strength of the signal-- i.e. I have to really crank my receiver to get a decent volume level, and I have a feeling the overall quality degrades as I do so. I have very little familiarity with laptop audio cards, but I was looking at the Creative Labs SB0950 ExpressCard as an inexpensive option-- anybody have an opinion on this card?
 
I was also wondering if I'd be better served by getting a DAC (?) Ultimately, I'd just like to get a better overall signal, with more loudness, deeper bass, etc. Any suggestions for any approach are most appreciated...

 

[DaveBSC]

Assuming your receiver has a digital input, your best option would be an M2Tech Hiface Two, or Musical Fidelity V-Link II. Digital output from a laptop is going to be much better than analog output under any circumstance.

 

[styylus]

thanks for the response Dave. this is a very basic receiver-- Sony STR-DH100-- and it has a digital media port (?) would this work with the equipment you mentioned? and what would be the next best thing just going the line out/analog route?