Need help deciding on sound card

[ChiefMustin]

I recently upgraded my system from an AMD 3200+ & 9800 pro to a AMD 64 3500+ and X800 XT. I have decided that it is time to replace my 5 year old SB live! value sound card with a new one.
My problem is that I can't decide if a new X-FI card is worth the extra money over an Audugy 2 ZS. Is there a significant difference between the audio of these two? Any help, suggestions would be great!

[NoSoup4You]

Re: Need help deciding on sound card

What kind of speakers do you have? If you have really high end then the X-fi is worth it, otherwise stick with an Audigy2 ZS or above.

[ChiefMustin]

Re: Need help deciding on sound card

I have crappy speakers, but Senheiser head phones. I just read a post at creative about the problems the xi fi is having, so I think ill wait till they get it sorted out.

[Talus]

Re: Need help deciding on sound card

I would at least recommend the X-Fi Xtreme Music card. I am not going to recommend people buy an Audigy series card unless they are on a very tight budget.

[DrunkenPirate]

Re: Need help deciding on sound card

Moved to Hardware forum.

[NoSoup4You]

Re: Need help deciding on sound card

I have crappy speakers, but Senheiser head phones. I just read a post at creative about the problems the xi fi is having, so I think ill wait till they get it sorted out.

What problems? I have had zero problems with it.

[lil_jimmy_norton]

Re: Need help deciding on sound card

What problems? I have had zero problems with it.

Ditto.

[Flanker]

Re: Need help deciding on sound card

Yea, the Creative X-Fi XtremeMusic is an amazing sound card.

[BRUTALITEEEEEEEEE]

Re: Need help deciding on sound card

You just cannot beat the X-Fi Extreme Music card. I picked one up and have noticed very benificial improvement in all areas (Music, Games). Everything just sounds better, plus if you mess with the console you can do some VERY entertaining things.

on a side note to anyone with an X-Fi card....

Set it up so what you are listening to sounds like its in an Opera hall and go here: http://www.ebaumsworld.com/videos/fartingpreacher.html

It puts a WHOLE differant spin on it HAHAHAHAHA!!!!!

[Flares]

Re: Need help deciding on sound card

I upgraded from an old SBLive! 5.1 card to the Audigy 2ZS, and went from playing with BF2 audio settings at software/medium/EAX off to hardware/high/EAX on. Sound effects and fps are significantly improved.
Also listening to MP3s and watching DVDs there is a vast improvement. If you have the budget for an X-Fi card go for it. If not, then I can recommend the Audigy 2ZS.