Sound Card vs DAC

[rj49]

Hi all,

I'm planning out an upcoming build, and not sure what the best solution for sound would be. I use a set of 5.1 cans for gaming and a stereo amp for music.

So, do I need a soundcard for positional surround from games, or would a 5.1 USB DAC do the job?

Would it even be better to use a budget soundcard (like the DG) for the surround and run the SPDIF output to something better for stereo?

 

[TALON1973]

First off ... what's your budget ? And what's your current setup ?

 

[rj49]

Budget of about £400? I could go a bit higher if it was worth it, but then it's cutting into the rest of the build money.

Currently running a Naim Nait/B&W 685s and a set of Roccat Kaves off of a Xonar D2X.