Which Audio Card to get?

[jimbonator]

Hey guys, I've been reading a ton on different forums on this, but I'm still unsure what to do.

I want to upgrade from onboard audio.

I have a ASRock Dual SATA2 mb, AMD X2 4200+, eVGA Geforce 6800GT AGP 256mg, with a WD 74gb Raptor 10k RPM drive. It's amazing that if I put my audio setting on anything but the basic, the fps go wayy down.

So I've read about the Audigy2 ZS allows you to crank up the audio settings. I've read about problems with the X-fi cards. Some people say if you have the audigy, there is no need to upgrade. I can get the audigy for around 80 bucks. The X-fi card is 120 for the basic, 180 for the platinum.

What should I get? I hate to spend over 100 bucks, and for some reason I still can't turn up my audio settings without suffering fps loss.

[Talus]

Re: Which Audio Card to get?

I have problem with my X-Fi card..I wholeheartedly recommend the X-Fi XtremeMusic (and you can even get it OEM now I believe).

Don't go for the Platinum or FPS editions unless you have money to burn. The X-RAM isn't used by any apps yet (including BF2).

My audio sounds amazing now and I'm glad I upgraded from my Audigy.

Just make sure you get the latest drivers from Creative's site.

It would be like trying to choose between a current gen video card and a next gen video card...

[sackynut]

Re: Which Audio Card to get?

x-fi. there are not problmems with it unless you use it wrong. the sound quality is AWESOME, and it performs very well. MUCH better than the audigy. definitly go with the x-fi.

[jimbonator]

Re: Which Audio Card to get?

Thanks. That's what I need, some input from users like you who have had both.

So the X-Fi xtreme music is the way to go. That's what I'll probably do then. I welcome all other experiences users of these cards to reply and let me know your feelings.

You guys have your audio settings on high and have a smooth framerate with the xtreme music x-fi?

[Spartan101]

Re: Which Audio Card to get?

yeah, With the X-Fi you can put ur audio settings to the max. And u still get good fps, you wont notice a great change. If you have the money for a X-fi go for it you will not regret it.

[imported_Rumple9]

Re: Which Audio Card to get?

I'm quite happy with the Audigy 2zs - way better than on board sound

[KCoastie8206]

Re: Which Audio Card to get?

I tried the Turtle Beach Montego first and it gave me a bunch of problems with BF2 even when I updated the drivers. I got the X-Fi XtremeMusic and after I updated the drivers from the Creative website, it's been awesome. Runs BF2 on Ultra High, great sound, I didn't notice any FPS increase tho. I'd definitely recommend the X-Fi.

[Laike]

Re: Which Audio Card to get?

I recommend Xfi too... when it works. Mines is right now giving me grief and not installing the blasted drivers. But when it works, wohoo, blow your socks off!

[LoD]

Re: Which Audio Card to get?

Another vote for X-Fi extreme music or even OEM. Only get the Platinum if you need/want the live drive. Dont get an X-ram version though, its a complete waste of money.

[jimbonator]

Re: Which Audio Card to get?

I tried the Turtle Beach Montego first and it gave me a bunch of problems with BF2 even when I updated the drivers. I got the X-Fi XtremeMusic and after I updated the drivers from the Creative website, it's been awesome. Runs BF2 on Ultra High, great sound, I didn't notice any FPS increase tho. I'd definitely recommend the X-Fi.

Yeah, I'm not expecting an increase, as long as it doesn't DECREASE :).

I ordered another stick of 1 gig RAM so I'll be at 2 gig. The Xtrememusic is next on my wish list!

[Sir. S.A.S]

Re: Which Audio Card to get?

My x-Fi owns and i highly recommend it. I can now tell exactly where helicopters are ETC. If you want a front panel with lots of plugs go for the FAlt1y

[N2K]

Re: Which Audio Card to get?

X-Fi is the best! XtremeMusic is good enough