Onboard sound should be adequate for most users. Most motherboards these days come with audio support that is far superior to older motherboards, and even some older-generation dedicated sound cards. Many even include surround sound!
If you are not sure if you need an upgrade, be sure to contact our sales consultants at [email protected]. They will be happy to help you find the right sound card for your specific needs.
If you are not sure if you need an upgrade, be sure to contact our sales consultants at [email protected]. They will be happy to help you find the right sound card for your specific needs.
Jon Bach (President) Says:
I've found onboard sound to be perfectly fine for most people. High end gaming or high quality music could benefit from a quality sound card, though.
I've found onboard sound to be perfectly fine for most people. High end gaming or high quality music could benefit from a quality sound card, though.
Wilson Chau (Consulting Manager) Says:
I've never had a problem using onboard sound though I'm not an audiophile. I honestly couldn't tell the difference between onboard sound and some of the higher end cards. Keep in mind too that the speakers you get also make a difference. There's no point in getting a high end sound card and then getting $10 speakers!
I've never had a problem using onboard sound though I'm not an audiophile. I honestly couldn't tell the difference between onboard sound and some of the higher end cards. Keep in mind too that the speakers you get also make a difference. There's no point in getting a high end sound card and then getting $10 speakers!
William George (Marketing Project Manager) Says:
If you want to know what the onboard audio capabilities are of the motherboard you are looking at, scroll up on the configure page and click on the link to the motherboard. It will provide details like number of supported output channels, digital audio capabilities, etc.
If you want to know what the onboard audio capabilities are of the motherboard you are looking at, scroll up on the configure page and click on the link to the motherboard. It will provide details like number of supported output channels, digital audio capabilities, etc.
Christopher Crader (Customer Support) Says:
Onboard sound should work fine for most folks, but if you have especially sensitive speakers or headphones, particularly higher end ones (think $500+), I'd recommend getting a sound card or a USB DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter).
We've actually started carrying USB DACs recently, so I'd consider checking them out as an alternative to a sound card. They'll offer better audio quality than onboard sound, and will also work around the common "buzz" that sound cards inside of a computer can sometimes get.
Specifications
Specifications | |
| Slot Type | Onboard |
| Channel Output | Varies Channels |
| Analog Input | Varies |
| Digital Output | Varies |
| Digital Input | Varies |
| Front-panel Connection | Varies |
| EAX Support | Varies |
Most modern motherboards come with a sound controller built in. The newer motherboards even have controllers that are comparable to some of these sound cards. Refer to the motherboard you selected for more information about the onboard sound.