Just how good is the C-Media CMI8738 ???

[lowrider]

I noticed that some of the KT266 boards offer 6 channel sound courtesy of the C-Media CMI8738.

If I bought one of these boards (Soyo Dragon, A7V266, etc) would you suggest I use the on-board sound or my SB Live! 5.1?

Also, does anyone know if the KT266 boards have the same problems with a SB Live! as the KT133A?

Thanks

[DanU]

I imaigne that for normal 2D sound it should be fine. However, I don't think this chip offers hardware 3d sound.

[eagle1]

It works well with my integrated board even in games.! It's not great... but it will do.!

[Dputiger]

I'd suggest staying with your SB Live! The C-MEDIA is not as nice as my Diamond Monster MX300--which, itself, was not quite as nice as the SB Live.

The C-MEDIA IS better than the older, AC 97 Codec, but onboard sound isn't up to separate card status, yet.

Still, I'll say this: Onboard sound is LEAPS above onboard video. Its not great, but it gets the job done capably in gaming--whereas onboard video just blows.

[lowrider]

Thanks for the help. I will keep my SB Live! if I upgrade to a board that has the C-Media on it.
My main purpose is to avoid the type of problems associated with the SB Live! and the KT133A. Maybe I should wait a few more weeks and see how the SB Live! works on boards with the SiS 735 chipset.

[This message has been edited by lowrider (edited 08-05-2001).]

[Rabs]

The CMedia 8738 is a very capable chip which from experience I have no problems what so ever. I'm running the 5.1 now with DTT2200 Cambridge Soundworks and it works perfectly.

I would rather have a SB 5.1 Card but this one's fine. And it was for free!

[eagle1]

Yeah the cmedia chip reproduce good sound and yes, it is leaps and bounds above integrated video.

About SBLive issues with the KT133, I haven't experienced any problems as of this day. It is working flawlessly.!

[lowrider]

Yeah, I didn't have any problems with my KT7-Raid but when I upgraded to an Epox 8KTA3+ with the KT133A I started having sound crackling problems.
I just want to avoid those problems the next time I upgrade. I was thinking of either using the onboard sound (if it is good enough) or making sure I get a board that works well with my SB Live!.