Headphones direct v headphones via speaker jack

[A.Baird3]

I recently installed a Creative Soundblaster Z, and have my inexpensive 2.1 stero desktop speakers plugged into them, I also have a headphone extension lead plugged into the card, and extending round to the front of the pc for easy access. When listening to music I use my headphones.

Now, will there be any difference in sound quality between, a) plugging my headphones into the headphone lead, b) plugging my headphones into the headphone jack on my speakers?

 

[A.Baird3]

Thank you for your comprehensive reply.

The way I thought of it, listening via the speakers jack means more 'stuff' between the headphones and the sound card, and as you rightly mentioned depends on the quality of the speakers' components (they're Logitech so shouldn't be too bad). Whereas the lead from the card is more direct, so in theory ought to be superior. However, this is based on no real knowledge of mine.

I'l explore further testing. Maybe there is no definitive answer.