10 best sound cards for computer

A person has several senses, however, when consuming media content, we use only a couple of them - sight and hearing. The better the content, the more positive emotions we get. This also applies to the sound subsystem of the PC, since it is she who is responsible for the depth of the sound picture. Currently, laptops and motherboards of desktop computers are equipped with built-in cards that perform a simple function - sound reproduction. They are not able to convey all the charms of the sound picture, which is why separate devices were created to solve the problem.

They are of two types - embedded (internal) and external. The first few cheaper due to the lack of expensive housing and are designed to improve personal computers. The second type can do more - thanks to connecting via USB ports, it can be connected to laptops, significantly expanding the functionality of the latter, which is very convenient if recording or listening takes place in several places and you need to constantly move with your equipment. In addition, they often support both 5.1 format and 7.1

We have selected for you the rating of the best representatives of sound cards in three categories. Meet and choose!

The best low-cost internal sound cards: a budget of up to 5,000 rubles.

Let's start with the most budget representatives. Devices in this segment are characterized by moderate performance. They are only enough to solve everyday tasks - listening to music or watching movies. Attractive price due to the lack of an external enclosure. These models are installed inside stationary PCs, and the connection is made via PCI and PCI-E interfaces.

3 ASUS Xonar DG

Opens the rating of one of the most budgetary audio cards on the market. The cost of 2 thousand rubles imposes significant restrictions on the functionality relative to competitors. The card is connected via a PCI interface, so if this port is occupied by a video card, then you should take care to purchase a new motherboard with an additional slot or refuse to buy an audio card at all. The presence of three analog outputs and 6 channels makes it impossible to use the device on acoustics of the 7.1 format. It leaves much to be desired and the maximum frequency of the DAC, which is only 96 kHz.

However, there are positive points. For example, the presence of a digital optical output S / PDIF used to connect external audio devices (for example, an amplifier). Secondly, there is support for modern standards. ASIO version 2.0 and EAX v.2, which will definitely appeal to gamers. Well, the main advantage is the low price that fully justifies the technical capabilities of the device.

2 Creative Audigy 2 ZS

This budget model has taken the place of the acclaimed Xonar DX. Audigy 2 ZS not only did not rise in price, but also acquired decent technical characteristics. The ratio of silence and noise here is higher than that of the Audigy Rx model and is 108 dB. However, the number of output analog connectors here is half as much and is only 4 pieces.There are only 2 analog input connectors. The card is characterized by smooth sound, good panorama and minimal delay - only 50ms for “heavy” projects.

In addition, it shows itself well in games, as it has a good processor, which reduces the load on the computer. Of the downsides are the connection through the outdated PCI to the PC and the lack of fresh drivers from the manufacturer. The problem is solved by installing software from caring communities, since today the card has not lost its relevance.

1 Creative Sound Blaster Audigy Rx

The first line of the ranking is also a representative of Creative. The ratio of silence and noise - 106 dB. The maximum frequency of the DAC in multi-channel mode is 96 kHz, against 192. It is worth noting that this model provides more room for recording. For this, two mic and one line-in inputs are built into the device. This bundle allows you to record from two sources simultaneously, such as guitars and vocals.

Corporate software is presented by utilities such as KaraokePlayer, SmartRecorder and WaveStudio. With their help, you can not only enjoy high-quality sound, but also do amateur sound recording on your computer. For better sound and shorter delays, the device supports the ASIO v standard. 2.0.

The best external sound cards: a budget of up to 10,000 rubles.

In the second category, we took external sound cards that are connected to the computer via the USB connector. Such devices are recommended to owners of laptops or those who wish to create their own recording studio. They allow you to expand the number of audio outputs and connect more devices.

4 Creative X-FiSurround 5.1 Pro

We start with a budget and simple device. Its cost is about 5,000 rubles. For this money, the buyer gets a good system for watching movies with 5.1 sound format. For a larger device is not capable. This is due to not the highest maximum frequency of the DAC - 96 kHz. Also, when buying, you should take into account that connecting a 7.1 sound system will not work - analog output channels are only 6 with 4 connectors.

From the useful worth noting the presence of ASIO v. 2.0 and EAX 5 versions. The package also includes a remote control for switching tracks, adjusting the volume, etc. According to user feedback, this is a good option for a home PC for your money.

3 ASUS Xonar U7

The third place is taken by the model from ASUS with the U7 index. Compared to Creative, the maximum frequency of the D / A here is simply gorgeous and is 192 kHz. More and output channels - only 8 pieces, which makes it possible to use 7.1 surround sound. There are three types of output connectors:

• RCA ("tulip"),
• Mini jack,
• S / PDIF.

Switching between them is carried out using a washer located on top of the case. It also serves as a volume control. Remote control, like a silver medalist, no.

This model is recommended for purchase to those users who appreciate the surround sound quality in movies and video games and at the same time does not plan to engage in sound recording. Users involved in streaming or wanting to record their track, it is better to look at the more expensive models.

2 Steinberg UR12

The model was introduced at the end of 2014 and did not lose its relevance. The main advantage is the record for affordable prices, while maintaining all the characteristics of the previous generation. The device is placed in a fully metal case, has USB bus power, the ability to connect a condenser microphone. In total there are 6 connection modes, from 44 to 192 kHz. Equipped with a Yamaha preamp. The interface works with any music programs on MacOS and Windows operating systems. It is also fully compatible with iPad.

Compared with more expensive devices, the interface is very worthy and it is clearly audible on the equipment with high details. This is noted by users in their reviews, and the number of claims to quality is less with each generation.

1 Audient ID4

Favorite U7 has pressed a little more expensive model ID4 from the company Audient. And believe me - it is worth it. The main advantage here is the filling. Microphone preamp migrated here straight from the full-size studio consoles. Instrumental input is built on dust transistors. The manufacturer responsibly approaches the assembly of devices and, in the opinion of users, does not even save on converters. The dynamic range of the DAC is one of the best in the segment - 115 dB.

Despite the meager delivery package consisting of the device itself and the USB cable, all the main buns will be available after registration on the official website of the manufacturer. The card itself is dual-channel (you can connect two sources) and can simultaneously receive both a condenser microphone and an electric guitar. Both channels have separate amplification and indication. The ID4 combo input has support for linear connections, which will allow you to connect not only instruments and microphones, but also devices with linear outputs, for example, preamps.

The best sound cards for gamers

Gamers are a special layer of buyers. They use only the best equipment and computers from top manufacturers, often producing special limited versions of devices. Sound cards have not been left aside, they have received special "game" improvements that allow them to fully immerse themselves in the gameplay.

3 ASUS Strix Raid DLX

Opens the TOP of the best gaming sound cards creation from ASUS. StrixRaid DLX is a top card in the range of the manufacturer due to its good technical characteristics. The maximum DAC frequency is 192 kHz, 8 channels are supported, the signal-to-noise ratio is excellent - 124 dB. The only fly in the ointment may be somewhat overpriced relative to competitors.

Appearance does not cause censures - it is moderately aggressive, simple and at the same time attractive. An additional unit allows you to connect a gaming headset, adjust the volume and switch between normal and game mode using the "RAID" button.

Special attention deserves proprietary utility to control the sound card. ASUS SonicStudio allows you to change the volume, adjust the equalizer, adjust the number of sound sources, etc. According to customer reviews, the interface has a pleasant color scheme and functionality, making it easy to master.

2 Creative SoundBlasterZx

In second place is the sound card from the company Creative. The SoundBlasterZx is the successor to the popular Blaster Z gamers. It has an attractive price due to slightly lower capabilities than its competitors. The maximum frequencies and signal-to-noise ratio are approximately the same, but only 6 channels are supported. For the rest, we get almost the same for a lower amount.

The original appearance is due to the presence of the "viewing" window, which is visible to the main chip. Present and remote unit. It can connect headphones and a microphone. However, it should be borne in mind that the volume control works only with headphones - the audio system connected directly to the sound card does not communicate with the external unit. But there is a connector for connecting to the front panel of the PC.

According to user feedback, the card is great for games due to the optimal combination of all frequencies and creating a sound volume. This plus will be difficult to assess when watching movies, since there the emphasis is on the central channels.

1 ASUS Essence STX II

The main feature of this model of the Hi-End segment is the updated filling and support for the 7.1 format. The card has a removable metal screen over the analog part, but its meaning is purely decorative. But what helps to achieve high parameters, so it is good wiring and separation of analog and digital circuits on a four-layer printed circuit board. The already high-quality filling of the card has acquired new MUSES opamps, created specifically for sound equipment. German film capacitors WIMA and linear non-pulse power regulators that act as filters. This list of improvements is not limited.

Cheap quartz resonators were replaced with temperature-compensated ones, which allowed reducing jitter. A nice bonus will be a set of CU and a tool for their installation. Chips are changed without soldering, which further facilitates the repair or replacement of components. In addition, it is possible to experiment with sound.

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