Best Sound Card for gaming?

[bob943]

I was wondering what people think are currently the best cards for gaming only. I'm only looking for something that uses a 2.1 type system, not really interested in the full surround experience.
I have heard that the Soundstorm system in NF2 boards is good, but still can't beat even a Soundblaster Live card.

Also saw some posts on this site recently saying the Audigy cards have some inherent problems...

[scoob19]

I soundstorm on the NF2 board and am very happy with it. If thats what you have theres really no need to upgrade.

[bassman]

And if you're not going to "use" EAX and DolbySurround effects, I don't see the need for a separate card for sound processing; I'd stick with onboard sound

[Someone Stupid]

I have heard both Soundstorm and an Audigy 2 Platinum (both of which I own). Soundstorm is better than an Audigy 1 on good boards (some which incororated it didn't do a good job). I know my Albatron sounds clearer and crisper with less noise than my EPoX did, both used soundstorm. I only use the Audigy 2 as I use my computer as my CD/DVD system in this room and I have a high end amplifier and speakers so no use in using something inferior when I could use the Audigy 2 Platinum which I already owned (and it is not that much better).

Most nforce boards don't have soundstorm, then some of those that do don't shield the traces well enough or make you go through the I/O panel jacks which is where there is a ton of noise. With the added SPDIF bracket on a good board it puts it well above a soundblaster live.

[MadPistol]

I own an Audigy 2 ZS, and it has totally customizable options for any system setup. I'm currently playing on a 4.2 surround sound speaker setup and I am blown away at the kind of quality I am getting out of the EAX capabilities of this card. On Halo, it sounds ultra realistic with EAX enabled. I swear I can hear everything on this card.

I recommend the Audigy 2 ZS or Audigy 2 ZS Platinum! Just freakin incredible. I have my own 1 man movie theater right here on my computer (mainly due to my 2 subwoofers on my sound system, but the Audigy 2 ZS's 24-bit sound makes it sound that much better.) Gotta love the 24-bit sound quality. Huge upgrade from old 16-bit Soundblaster Live!

[tasty danish]

i second the audigy 2 zs.
it's great.
but if you only have a 2.1 and "aren't interested in the surround experience (how could you not be?)" then just use onboard.

[Rabbitrunner51]

What do you want to spend?? the Audigy ZS..which yes you can use 2.1 or any other settings up to 7.1 is a good future investment.....as someday you might want to upgrade and there you are ...no need for a new card....it is only about $80.00,if thats not too much for a card that has everything...I have it and its awesome......no problems with drivers or controls

Creative makes a wide range of cards and i know they make one which is a basic gaming card also.....check their site and see what they have to offer and then either go to someplace like Office Depoe or online ( newEgg.comm ) and check cards and reviews.....do the homework...and you will be happy..

[Someone Stupid]

Why have him pay an extra 80 dollars for something he can get for free with a solid Soundstorm capable board? He doesn't need any additional features as Soundstorm is more than enough for gaming in 2.1. I personally think it would be a waste of money to buy a seperate sound card.

[Rabbitrunner51]

That's cool!:t

[tasty danish]

for a 2.1 SS is definately right.

i figure if you get a 6.1 or better or a high end 5.1 you might be enough of an audio freak to get a dedicated sound card

[Rabbitrunner51]

What problem are the Audigy cards suppose to have??? For all around purposes I love this card....a good product with good reviews.... no problems with mine..

Good onboard sound like my old board which had the Soundblaster works fine for most ears.... I am picky due to the fact I played music alot in my life and have a distinct and good ear for sound...want the best!

[MadPistol]

The Audigy 2 ZS my parents got was about $100 about 2 months ago at a retail store. If you buy online though, you can probably find it for a much smaller sum of money.

[Rabbitrunner51]

try Office depoe or newEgg.com, which is where I got it...

its about $78-83 most places.....

[rusty4x4]

Turtle Beach Santa Cruz. Crisp, clean, no regrets. :)