Sound card and speakers on a budget

Fluff_eei · 19 Jan 2006 at 13:24

Ok guys,

I'm already pretty set on buying the Creative T6060 or the Logitech X530 speakers, don't really want much more input on that. However, could someone let me know what the soundcard below the X-Fi I should get is? I don't want to spend much, I'm absolutely not an audiophile, I do not need bookshelf speakers, seperate 2.1's and an amp, or any of the stuff you all recommend.

I want good positional audio, basicly good positioning and a smooth transition from speaker to speaker (EAX4 almost a necessity). I thought the Creative Soundblaster 2 ZS is the thing to get but then I see two other OEM looking things in the soundcard section, so I'm kind of confused!

It's all with an eye to playing games basicly. Thanks for all your input in advance.

Fluff_eei

PS. If you think I'd be better off with 7.1 could you give me a good reason why.

Fluff_eei · 19 Jan 2006 at 16:17

Do any of you guys have experience of lower end sound cards?

Fluff_eei

tbz_ck · 20 Jan 2006 at 09:46

I just got the SB Audigy 4 OEM which is an excellent card. Supports EAX from 1 to 3 (not sure about 4 but may do) so all the latest games sound great in surround sound (supports 7.1 if your speakers do). I've got them hooked up to Videologic ZX550 5.1 sound system and the Speedlink Medusa 5.1 headphones. So I am pleased with my setup.

The card comes in at £40 ish which is good value. Can't help you with your choice of speakers but when I looked at the X-fi cards I thought they were too expensive....

Fluff_eei · 20 Jan 2006 at 17:04

Not sure if I'm aloud to even mention this but I saw an X-Fi extreme music somewhere else for £61. For £30 more than the audigy 4 what are people opinions on whether it's worth it?

Fluff_eei

tbz_ck · 23 Jan 2006 at 14:50

I have no idea. If you're prepared to pay the extra then do so, but you did say you were on a budget. If it were me I would get the SB4 and use the extra towards better speakers.

Fluff_eei · 23 Jan 2006 at 17:35

Lol by on a budget I mean cheapskate. I may not get anything in the end as the ATI video cards are so cheap atm. Cheers guys,

Fluff_eei