What would you look for if you were buying a computer with a sound card?

Answer

It depends what would be the main purpose of this computer. If you need just to listen to some mp3 files, then any computer will do. There are two approaches:

1. Buy the parts and build the computer 2. Buy a computer already built

1. That was a very good way of saving some money in the past. However, these days buying an already assembled computer is not so expensive. If you build the computer, choose a motherboard that has sound card included and provides surround 5.1. This will provide a very good sound quality.

If you want a separate sound card, just proceed with the latest model provided by Creative (http://www.creative.com). Make sure it supports surround 5.1 and you are all set.

Even if you purchase a motherboard with the sound card included, you can disable it from bios and attach whatever separate sound card you might find suitable.

2. Just go for any online retailer and purchase a computer. See what are the specs for the included sound card (look for the surround capabilities).

Some time ago the cheap sound cards did not provide the best output quality. These days, the differences between various sound card quality are not that big, except the ones designed for studios or radio stations.

First answer by Dgabrov. Last edit by Dgabrov. Contributor trust: 111 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 23 [recommend question]