Best Sounding 2 Channel Sound Card


Its times like this that one realizes how limited their PC knowledge really is. I've been reading sound card reviews for about an hour and am no closer to knowing which one is best for my purposes. I have over 15,000 MP3 files on my PC, most recorded above 190. I want to connect my PC to my main stereo (McIntosh C2200 tube preamp, Mac MC352 SS amp and Merlin VSM-M speakers).
Looking to get the best sound practical without spending a fortune. Mostly just use it for 2 channel playback. Some recording, but not much. Is the Soundblaster Audiology II Platinum pretty good or should I go for something more exotic? Most the more expensive units seem to focus on recording. Thanks in advance... Jim
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I'm killing myself here!

For the first time in 2 1/2 days, I finally feel as though I have something to contribute to this website! I have literally been wowed by all the information available in regards to high end audio. A whole new world has opened up to me! hahaha! And I'm loving it!

Ok, here's the lowdown...

Just like all the fine high end audio equipment available on this website, there's a whole new world that exists out there for computer based music. About two years ago I began my research, to build the ultimate computer based music studio. To put it mildly, my brain is buldging with information. I purchased the Echo Layla 24 - a 24bit/96khz, 8in/8out audio interface for my Dell PC that allows me to record 8 channels simultaneously. It's a great card. One of the best available in fact. I really like the company Echo all around. The service has been exceptional, and they provide driver updates regularly. Check them out at www.echoaudio.com

The Echo Mia has received good reviews and has all the ins and outs you'll need, including an S/PDif out, allowing you to stay in the digital domain, should your amp have an optical in.
Hi.

The folks at M-AUDIO - m-audio.com - have come up with a real jem. It's called the "Revolution 7.1"

I bought it yesterday for $149 Cdn. which translates to about $100 US. Without getting into all the technical mumbo jumbo this card walks all over anything Creative has ever put out and that includes the SB Audigy 2 platinum which retails in Canada for about $350.00. (yikes)

It is very easy to install and configure, the sound is truly unbelievable. I was shocked.

Give this card a try. You'll be amazed.

Cheers.
Actually the way I understand it that soundcard is unimportant. I think the better way to achive good jitter free PC sound is to bypass souncard and use optical or coax output going to recever or amp.
...even better if your digital PC sound out of digital output goes to digital amplifier/receiver, like HK or Sony receiver. That way your digital signal is not converted to analog and stays digital all the way.