So my D2X drivers have started randomly BSODing fairly regularly (tried both Asus and Uni Xonar), I was intending to replace it when I build a new PC next year anyway but as it's currently affecting my day to day usage I'd like to replace it now with a setup I can carry over when I update.
Current setup:
Asus Xonar D2X with 3x3.5mm jacks going to Logitech Z906 5.1 speakers, recently started to occasionally use headphones via the speaker controller.
Gigabyte Z77-D3H mobo with 2/4/5.1/7.1 and S/PDIF available.
I also currently use my main monitor for my Xbox and PS4 and play the audio via the PC using a 3.5mm jack from the controller to the Mic In. This is so can have both the console and PC audio coming through my speakers/headphones at the same time so I can have something on in the background or playing on my second monitor.
So from coming into this as beginner it seems that a USB soundcard or DAC is the way to go, but this looks to me like I'll have to sacrifice 5.1? I'd like to keep it but it's not a deal breaker. If I have to give up 5.1 I'd look at replacing the speakers with something more audiophile in the future.
Would I benefit from an amp as well?
I'd also like a better way of playing my Xbox/PS4 through the same speakers at the same time but as the Series X and PS5 don't appear to have dedicated audio outputs perhaps my current method is the simplest going forward.
Intended use:
Gaming, music, Youtube/Netflix etc, films and tv shows typically from 5.1 files.
Using both speakers and headphones depending on time of day, preference is speakers however.
Budget wise perhaps £150-300?
Thanks in advance.
Current setup:
Asus Xonar D2X with 3x3.5mm jacks going to Logitech Z906 5.1 speakers, recently started to occasionally use headphones via the speaker controller.
Gigabyte Z77-D3H mobo with 2/4/5.1/7.1 and S/PDIF available.
I also currently use my main monitor for my Xbox and PS4 and play the audio via the PC using a 3.5mm jack from the controller to the Mic In. This is so can have both the console and PC audio coming through my speakers/headphones at the same time so I can have something on in the background or playing on my second monitor.
So from coming into this as beginner it seems that a USB soundcard or DAC is the way to go, but this looks to me like I'll have to sacrifice 5.1? I'd like to keep it but it's not a deal breaker. If I have to give up 5.1 I'd look at replacing the speakers with something more audiophile in the future.
Would I benefit from an amp as well?
I'd also like a better way of playing my Xbox/PS4 through the same speakers at the same time but as the Series X and PS5 don't appear to have dedicated audio outputs perhaps my current method is the simplest going forward.
Intended use:
Gaming, music, Youtube/Netflix etc, films and tv shows typically from 5.1 files.
Using both speakers and headphones depending on time of day, preference is speakers however.
Budget wise perhaps £150-300?
Thanks in advance.