2. pc-audio
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Need help setting up new pc audio system

Just purchased a new desktop - Velocity Micro Edge Z55. Didn't get either of the two offered sound cards - both Creative labs products. Went with integrated sound option with intention of purchasing after-market sound card.

Would like to get top notch 2/2.1 channel audio without going too crazy with the $$$. Looking at several sound cards by ASUS and Auzentech and HT Omega. So many options - can't figure out which one to buy. Can someone point me in the right direction. Should I run Firewire/USB out to external DAC? I would prefer to avoid that set-up unless its really necessary.

Also, very interested in new active speakers. Presently have Cambridge Soundworks Microworks by Henry Kloss which actually sound pretty amazing for what they are. Nevertheless, I'm sure I can do much better. Looking at Audioengine 2 which are very well reviewed. Also looking at Dynaudio MC 15 and Quad 11L active. Would love to hear from someone who has heard all three.

Thanks.
deringer

Showing 2 responses by deringer

deringer OP
3 posts
 
Thanks for the responses guys.

I have no external DAC at this point. Would like to avoid buying one if possible. I recognize there will a difference in sound quality, but if the difference between a $200 sound card and a $400 - $500 external DAC isn't going to be really dramatic, I'd prefer to spend the $$$ elsewhere (i.e., would I be better off with the external DAC and the Audioengine2's or the sound card and one of the other speaker choices).

I'll definitely add the BeoLab4 to my list of "what speakers should I consider?"
deringer OP
3 posts
 
So, new pc is here.

Inputs of old sub disintegrated, so definitely going to get new speakers. Have a pair of Audioengine2's being delivered tomorrow, but I have a feeling they are not going to cut it. In the meantime, I am really focusing on the Dynaudio MC 15's.

Question is do I go with a good sound card, or with USB out into Cambridge DACMagic, or something else. My concern is that while the unit is well reviewed, the USB input option doesn't seem to be so great. I'm not sure I want everything upsampled, plus if I understand what I am reading USB is limited in terms of its output resolution. So any high resolution audio files on my hard drive would be downsampled and then upsampled. That doesn't seem very intuitive.

Are there any external DAC's that will accept a firewire input that don't cost $2,000?
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