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Choosing a sound card for your computer. How to choose a sound card for your computer. Key features and connectors

Internal and external sound cards

Sound cards are divided into internal and external. External cards are standalone devices that connect to a computer via USB or FireWire. Internal cards will connect to the motherboard expansion slots inside the computer. Internal cards with comparable quality are usually cheaper due to the lack of an external case. The disadvantage of internal cards is usually a high risk of being exposed to low-quality computer power and numerous interferences. External sound cards are often easier to control with separate external controls and readily available I / O. In addition, the external card can work with both stationary computers and laptops.

Internal ESI sound card [email protected] and external ASUS Xonar Essence One

Professional and household

Among themselves, sound cards are divided into home and professional. Professional cards use connector types typical of music equipment such as 6.3mm Jack and balanced XLR, while consumer cards use RCA or 3.5mm jacks.

NuForce Icon uDAC-2 consumer sound card and professional E-MU 0404 USB

Creative Sound BlasterX AE-5

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Klipsch Heritage Headphone Amplifier

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What features should you pay attention to?

For external sound cards - external power supply or USB bus power is used. When using external power supply, the sound card can work better, because does not depend on noisy computer power supply. In contrast, USB-powered cards are more mobile. do not require an additional outlet and can be operated while connected to a laptop on the go.

It is a special protocol for transferring data from programs to a sound card driver. ASIO allows you to transfer sound from the program to the sound card without distortion. The second opportunity, demanded only by musicians, is to set the minimum delay level for signaling from the program to the sound card, which is important when playing / recording instruments live.

This is a free driver that adds ASIO support to any sound card. From the standpoint of sound quality and data transmission accuracy, the driver, unfortunately, does not provide bit-by-bit transmission and is necessary in cases where the sound card does not have its own ASIO support, and the program with which it is working can output a sound stream only in ASIO.

For Windows 7 and 8 there is an alternative sound transmission option without distortion via WASAPI, but it is supported by fewer sound programs. WASAPI is an alternative to ASIO for accurate music reproduction.

Microphone support and phantom power

There are various types of microphones, but most modern microphones are dynamic and condenser / electret microphones. The first type does not require a separate power supply and will work with both a household home and a professional sound card. The second type of microphone requires phantom power, which for household microphones is around 5 V, and for professional microphones from 12 to 48 V. For this reason, household condenser / electret microphones cannot be connected to professional cards (phantom power will be too high and the microphone may be damaged) , and a professional microphone connected to the consumer card will not work due to insufficient phantom power.

Many musicians and other people who in one way or another often work with sound on a computer or just listen to music are unhappy with the standard sound on a computer. This is where the sound card comes to the rescue. Let's talk about how to choose a sound card, what are its types.

When buying a computer or laptop, you will in any case have a standard sound card installed in the motherboard. Often it is enough for ordinary ordinary users who do not care about the sound quality and who just need to have sound.

Interesting fact: About 15 years ago, standard sound cards were not inserted into the motherboard, and one had to buy one separately. Because there was simply nowhere to connect the speakers (headphones).

The built-in sound system will not suit musicians and audiophiles, so sooner or later they will have a question about buying an additional sound card. Any, even the most budgetary external sound card will make the sound much richer and brighter.

Of course, first of all, you must decide what you need a sound card for. And based on this, you can choose a specific device.

What you usually need a sound card for:

It just needs more connectors (inputs and outputs).
Want high-quality sound in games.
For listening to music.
For sound recording and sound processing (for musicians).
For watching movies.
Etc.

Types of sound cards

To know, how to choose a sound card, you need to understand that all of them are conditional can be divided into 2 categories:

Musical... Such devices are intended mainly for musicians, sound engineers - for people who have to work with sound recording and processing. Such sound cards are more expensive than other cards.
Multimedia... These models are suitable for ordinary users: for watching movies, for games, for video recording, for ordinary listening to music. Such devices are more common and cheaper than musical ones.

In addition, sound cards are also divided into the following types:

It is worth noting that if you are choosing a sound card for a laptop (or tablet), then you should stop at an external device. You simply cannot connect an internal card anywhere.

Audio outputs

The more audio outputs, the more devices you can connect to your sound card. Of course, each user needs a different number of connectors. Therefore, first decide what you need a sound card for in order to estimate how many sound outputs you need.

Ideally, at least your sound card should have the following connectors:

Microphone input.
Headphone out.
S / PDIF connector. S / PDIF - various devices can be connected. It is believed that it is when you connect through this connector that you can get better sound.
Linear output.
Midi inputs and outputs (if you plan to connect midi devices such as synthesizers.

What connector is needed for what:

Availability of preamplifiers for headphones and microphone

Before, how to choose a sound card, please note that there are devices that are equipped with built-in preamps for headphones and a microphone, and there are also without preamps.

What is a preamplifier? The fact is that, for example, a microphone is weak by itself, and a preamplifier is needed to record it.

If sound quality is really important to you (both when recording and listening), it is better to take sound without preamplifiers, and buy them separately, because the built-in preamplifiers are not of very good quality. But note that individual preamps will take up extra space. Here you decide for yourself what is most important for you.

Built-in ASIO driver

When choosing a sound card, be sure to check or ask your dealer if the device has a built-in ASIO driver. What it is?

This is a special protocol that is needed to minimize audio latency when transferring it from a sound card to a computer.

For example, when you play the guitar (via sound to the computer), you first hit the strings, and you hear the sound in the speakers after a while (even a split second - and you can already hear the sound lagging behind). Or when you play on, the same thing may happen: first press a key - and you hear the sound in the speakers after a while.

So, the ASIO driver minimizes this delay to such an extent that you will not hear it. That is, it will, of course, be, but so minimal that the human ear will not hear it.

So if this is important for you, make sure you have such a driver when choosing a sound card. Otherwise, you will have to additionally install the ASIO driver on the program in which you will be working, which is not always convenient.

Compatibility with your software

There are such problems when you bought a sound card, connected it - but it does not want to work with your operating system, or with the program in which you work as a musician.

Therefore, ask in advance and make sure that the sound card will not conflict with your software. As a last resort, do not hesitate to ask the seller about it.

How to choose a sound card: price

Of course, it is difficult to talk about prices for this or that model, since the price depends on many factors: the type of device, the manufacturer, the number of inputs-outputs, and the quality of the sound card.

We can only say that music sound cards are more expensive than multimedia ones, because the former are more demanding on sound quality.

The cheapest and most primitive sound card can literally cost you 100 rubles... For example, this one from China ():

Of course, don't expect a significant improvement in sound quality from this interface. Unless you get a couple of additional connectors, and that's it. Moreover, for that kind of money, especially from China 🙂 But for those who want to indulge, this option may be suitable.

Sound card of average quality, normal, can cost about 10-15K rubleth.

Professional sound cards, especially for professional musicians and sound engineers, can be very expensive, up to RUB 300K, and even higher.

Conclusion

So we figured out a little about this issue - how to choose a sound card... It can be concluded that before you buy this device, you need to clearly understand why you need it. Based on these goals, it is worth choosing a sound card.

Pay enough attention to the choice of a sound card, do not be lazy. You should not immediately run to the store and buy the first model that comes across. Also, do not forget to study the technical characteristics of the device you like.

Do you know what criteria you still need to pay attention to when choosing a sound card? Write in the comments!

The installed external sound card for a USB laptop makes it possible to significantly improve the sound quality - especially since laptop manufacturers usually do not supply them with high-quality audio systems.

An integrated card is usually not enough to get flawless sound, and in simple models of computers, sometimes you can't even count on a normal sounding audio recording and a legible movie soundtrack.

Why do you need an external sound card?

The decision to purchase an external sound card should be made in the following cases:

get good sound on your laptop when needed. The problem can be solved by connecting audio speakers, but this will only increase the sound volume, but not the quality;
in case of failure of the main, built-in card.

Features of external models

Typically, an external sound card is a small device the size of a flash drive or card reader. Strengthens the similarity and way of connecting to a laptop - via USB.

More expensive models reach the size of an external hard drive, and the most productive ones have dimensions comparable to the laptop itself.

The capabilities of any external card include:

sound enhancement compared to the built-in laptop system;
connection of one or more microphones, headphones or audio speakers.

The functionality of the more expensive models includes volume buttons and indicators. Top models are characterized by the presence of various connectors and interfaces, for example, analog output channels and a coaxial output, although their dimensions are much larger than that of compact sound cards.

The advantages of external sound cards are as follows:

a dramatic improvement in the quality of playback and, when choosing a suitable model, audio recording;
mobility, allowing you to connect an external card to any other computer - both stationary and portable. Also, the device often connects to a tablet or phone;
a large enough range of models in order to choose both a functional and an affordable device;
easy sound adjustment, including volume, timbre and bass using buttons on the card body. On a laptop without an external sound device, this can only be done programmatically.

For low-power and older laptops, the card takes the load off the processor. Indeed, due to the fact that sound processing occurs with the help of an external device, the computing power of the computer itself is freed. As a result, the equipment heats up less, and its efficiency increases.

Map selection

When choosing a sound card, it is worth considering several characteristics, depending on the tasks that the device must perform:

for home use, one audio input and one audio output is sufficient. For a compact home theater - at least two. And when used as a professional device for sound recording, it is worth choosing a model with 3-4 pairs of connectors, although it will cost more;
sound card capacity must be at least 24 bits;
the ratio of signal and noise parameters is at the level of 100-114 dB;
musical instruments require an interface that allows the connection of these devices.

It is desirable that the external card supports the Digital Theater System or Dolby Digital sound standard, which allows reading multi-channel audio and video tracks - this can be important when watching movies.

Support for the ASIO audio transfer protocol is optional, but allows you to increase the convenience of professional audio work.

EAX technology can provide environmental sound effects, which will be a good advantage for the player using multi-channel audio gaming applications.

The most profitable option

A sound card like Dynamode C-Media 108 (7.1) can be an excellent choice for high-quality sound.

The advantages of the model are compactness, ease of use, a durable case and a minimal cost (about 300 rubles), and among the disadvantages is a relatively small functionality. Such a sound card is worth buying for a laptop that has a broken built-in sound card. With its help, it is quite possible to connect a 7.1 audio system - the sound will be better than when plugged into a regular jack, but not as high quality as when using more functional models.

Portable home theater card

The advantages of the ASUS Xonar U7 external sound adapter are the following:

the presence, in addition to the usual mini-jack connectors for headphones and a microphone, also an eight-channel analog output, which improves the sound for a home theater audio system;
full compliance with all parameters for a good sound card - sound 24 bit / 192 kHz and signal-to-noise ratio at 114 dB, resistance range up to 150 Ohm;
ease of connection and configuration.

The cost of this card, which can be called a good option for fans of watching movies with good quality, does not exceed 3000 rubles.

Game card

Those who like to play games where sound quality is as important as video parameters will appreciate the capabilities of the Bahamut model.

This external card from Thermaltake works with both Windows and MacOS, it is distinguished by its attractive appearance and the presence of buttons on the case for turning on and off connected devices (headphones, microphone, speakers).

When connecting the card, be sure to install the drivers (included), and in the process of using - update them in a timely manner. The cost of the model is in the middle range - from 2500 to 3000 rubles.

Universal option

A decent mid-priced external sound card is the Creative Sound Blaster Play 2.

Despite its small size, this device provides surround sound and allows for virtually interference-free audio recording. SBX Pro Studio technology delivers a noticeable boost in volume over the built-in card and delivers a 3D sound experience for all types of audio systems - from headphones to 7.1.

Among other advantages of the card is convenient control through the corresponding application. At the same time, on the body of the device itself there are no buttons to control the sound. However, the lack of external control makes it compact, making it easy to carry the Sound Blaster Play 2 from place to place. The cost of the gadget in online stores does not exceed 2500 rubles, but you can find options for 1600 rubles.

Card for a musician

The FOCUSRITE SCARLETT SOLO STUDIO 2ND GEN can be an excellent choice for people involved in music and recording. Moreover, its small size provides a high degree of mobility, allowing you to move the device with a laptop or transport it in transport.

The device is different:

high quality playback and recording;
compact and durable metal body;
stylish appearance;
compatibility with laptops running different operating systems;
the ability to simultaneously record from a guitar and a microphone;
a common volume control for all outputs (headphones and speakers);
complete set with all the necessary devices for recording - a condenser microphone, studio headphones and connecting cables.

Besides this model, there are many other interesting options for recording and playing sound. However, in terms of the ratio of cost and capabilities, this one can be called one of the best and most affordable. You can buy it online for about 20-22 thousand rubles.

Starting and shutting down the map

It doesn't take long to connect an external card. You just need to connect the device to your laptop (using a cable or simply plug into the USB input). Next, you need to wait for the laptop to determine the external card and automatically install the drivers, and only then connect headphones, a microphone or speakers to it. If the system does not find the required software in its database or the device requires the use of only its own programs, they are installed from the disk or from the manufacturer's official website.

Advice: for high-quality sound reproduction, it is desirable that the connector supports USB 3.0 technology. And, if your device has two options for USB inputs (2.0 and 3.0), you should choose the second one to connect the card.

Possible problems

When installing an external sound card on a laptop, the following problems may occur:

The laptop “does not see” the device;
Card is installed but no sound is played.

Reinstalling into the next USB connector (if the card works, then the cause of the malfunction is an inoperative input) or connecting to another computer will help to solve the first problem. If this does not help to restore the card's operability, it is worth reinstalling its drivers (by downloading it from the network or from the disk that comes with the equipment). The latter method allows you to cope with the second problem. Failure to start an external sound card may indicate a malfunction or a factory defect.

Your computer or laptop requires a sound card, also called an audio card, to enable sound playback devices. Such devices are external, internal.

They are also distinguished by the type of connection: USB, PCI, PCI-E, FireWire, ExpressCard, PCMCIA. Buying a sound card for a computer is a difficult task that requires knowing the exact characteristics of the device into which it will be installed.

What is a sound card

An audio card is a sound card that is responsible for creating, converting, amplifying, editing sound reproduced by a personal computer, laptop or any other similar device. Maps are divided into several classes according to the nature of their location:

external;
internal;
internal with external module.

Why do you need a sound card

A sound card is needed for correct, accurate and timely reproduction of sounds requested by computer programs and the operating system of the device through speakers and headphones. Without it, a computer or laptop will not be able to send any sound signal to the external playback modules, since there is no other component with similar functions in it.

Device

A computer sound card consists of several associated hardware systems responsible for collecting, producing, processing audio data. The purpose of the two main audio systems is "audio capture" and work with music: its synthesis, playback. The device memory is accessed directly via coaxial or optical cable. Sound is generated in a digital signal processor (DSP): it plays certain notes, adjusts their tone, frequency. The DSP power and the total amount of available notes is called polyphony.

Types of sound cards

You can find audio cards on the market in a shockproof, water-resistant case. This type is better suited for connecting an advanced audio system, running the most powerful games. Individual boards and integrated audio cards are a more standard solution with averaged parameters. Cards are divided into three types according to the possibility of dismantling, location relative to the device:

integrated;
internal discrete;
external discrete.

Best sound cards

The choice of a sound card is fraught with difficulties. Such devices are multifunctional, so the set of characteristics for one audio card can be strikingly different from any other. Many expensive modules should be purchased only at a sale or at a discount, because their price can be overpriced. To understand which sound cards are suitable for a specific purpose, check out the pros, cons, features and parameters of the best models.

Professional

This audio card is a class above other external devices on the market. She is a great choice for studio recording:

model name: Motu 8A;
price: 60,000 rubles;
features: USB 3.0 connection, optional thunderbolt interface, Ethernet.
pluses: support for ASIO 2.0, control module on the case;
cons: high price, fragile shell.

In the next model, Motu standards ensure high-quality signal processing, it is equipped with an external unit, and the design is pleasing to the eye:

model name: Motu 624;
price: 60,000 rubles;
characteristics: thunderbolt connection, via usb ports, 2 XLR inputs;
pluses: simultaneous work with several multichannel systems;
cons: the need for additional food, it gets very hot.

Multichannel

The ST-Lab board will delight for a long time with high-quality sound and the absence of digital noise:

model name: ST-Lab M360;
price: 1600 rubles;
characteristics: multi-channel audio output, DAC 16 bit / 48 kHz, 8 analog audio outputs;
pluses: compact external card, low cost;
cons: ASIO 1.0.

ASUS is known for its reliability, quality, and durability. See for yourself with the Xonar DGX:

model name: ASUS Xonar DGX;
price: 3000 rubles;
characteristics: 7.1 sound, 8 audio outputs, PCI-E connection with a separate internal module;
pluses: clear sound, many connectors;
cons: large size.

PCI cards

Internal discrete and integrated boards are famous for excellent sound quality, high frequencies:

model name: ASUS Xonar D1;
price: 5000 rubles;
characteristics: PCI interface, DAC 24 bit / 192 kHz, multi-channel sound 7.1;
pluses: optical output S / PDIF, support for EAX v.2, ASIO 2.0;
cons: periodically produces loud digital noise.

Creative boards will allow you to enjoy high-quality sound in any multimedia format:

model name: Creative Audigy;
price: 3000 rubles;
characteristics: PCI interface, coaxial output, 1 mini-Jack;
pluses: alternative drivers expand the capabilities of the audio card;
cons: makes a loud bang when the device is turned off.

USB audio card

Portable audio cards can deliver great audio anywhere:

model name: Zoom UAC-2;
price: 14,000 rubles;
characteristics: external card, USB 3.0 interface, shockproof case, DAC 24 bit / 196 kHz;
pluses: quality / cost, the minimum required for studio recording;
cons: the settings of the control panel buttons are not obvious, there are no designations.

External modules of a computer should be not only convenient, but also of high quality. Line 6 POD gives you the ability to place your extended audio system anywhere:

model name: Line 6 POD studio UX2;
price: 16,000 rubles;
characteristics: 24 bit / 96 kHz, stereo audio outputs, multi-channel sound 7.1;
pluses: the ability to connect multiple devices, excellent noise reduction;
cons: the price does not match functionality, quality.

With optical output

Fiber optic cables offer unrivaled protection against interference. Experience clear sound with Universal Audio audio cards:

model name: Universal Audio Apollo Twin SOLO Thunderbolt;
price: 40,000 rubles;
characteristics: optical output S / PDIF, EAX v.2, ASIO 2.0;
pluses: pure multichannel sound, excellent card for studio recording;
cons: a small number of outputs.

With ASUS, purchasing a quality audio card has become even easier. An excellent combination of cost / quality and clear sound will help you appreciate any track:

model name: ASUS Strix Raid PRO;
price: 7000 rubles;
characteristics: PCI-E interface, optical S / PDIF output, ASIO 2.2, 8 channels;
pluses: control panel, the ability to connect headphones up to 600 ohms;
cons: software conflicts with other sound drivers.

Sound card 7.1

If you find it difficult to find an inexpensive good audio board, portability, reliability, ergonomics and advanced control of this model will reveal all the possibilities of the audio system:

model name: HAMA 7.1 surround USB;
price: 700 rubles;
characteristics: external audio card, USB 2.0, stereo analog audio outputs;
pluses: ease of control, good amplifier;
cons: low frequency.

Multichannel analog audio outputs contribute to comfortable listening to your favorite music with any audio system:

model name: BEHRINGER U-PHORIA UM2;
price: 4000 rubles;
characteristics: USB interface, ASIO 1.0, 2 analog outputs;
pluses: perfect for rough recording of a vocal part;
cons: no separate headphone volume control.

Sound card 5.1

The common 5.1 format is suitable for both simple and advanced audio systems:

model name: Creative SB 5.1 VX;
price: 2000 rubles;
characteristics: integrated sound card of the 5.1 system;
pluses: suitable for any computer, the card connects easily, quickly;
cons: sound chips are poorly soldered, which causes audio delays, microphone connection is unstable.

Creative SB Live! 5.1 is suitable for connecting professional sound systems and studio recording:

model name: Creative SB Live! 5.1;
price: 4000 rubles;
characteristics: 6 outputs of multichannel audio;
pluses: support for sound extensions of modern computers;
cons: the card is not suitable for a music lover due to its low bit depth.

Audiophile

True music lovers will appreciate the perfect sound experience with ASUS Sonar Essence audio cards:

model name: ASUS Sonar Essence STX II 7.1;
price: 18,000 rubles;
characteristics: 8 outputs, incl. coaxial S / PDIF;
pluses: clean reproduction of vocals, instrumental music;
cons: Non-SSD hard drives generate strong background noise.

High-quality sound and unique driver tuning solutions will improve the performance of your audio system with ASUS xonar Phoebus:

model name: ASUS xonar Phoebus;
price: 10,000 rubles;
characteristics: 2 analog channels, 2 3.5 mm jacks;
pluses: all driver settings are on a special banner window;
cons: lack of technical support.

Headphone

Not all headphones can accurately transmit the audio signal. MOTU Audio Express Converters solve this problem:

model name: MOTU Audio Express;
price: 30,000 rubles;
characteristics: USB 2.0 interface, coaxial input / output, 2 headphone jacks;
pluses: sturdy body, clear playback through headphones;
cons: close arrangement of external controls.

Tascam offers audio cards that help musicians work through excellent signal transmission:

model name: Tascam US366;
price: 10,000 rubles;
features: USB 2.0, instrument output, phantom power.
pluses: analog outputs and jack give perfect sound;
cons: unstable drivers.

For laptops

Notebook audio cards are gaining popularity. External modules will improve the sound:

model name: Creative X-FI Surround 5.1 Pro;
price: 5000 rubles;
characteristics: USB 2.0 interface, Asio v.2.0, 5.1 multi-channel sound, 6 analog connectors;
pluses: headphone amplifier, stylish design;
cons: does not support Linux OS.

Sound quality on laptops has always been an issue. Solve it with Creative sound blaster:

model name: Creative sound blaster Omni Surround 5.1;
price: 9000 rubles;
characteristics: 24 bit / 96 kHz, 6 audio outputs, connection via USB 2.0, optical S / PDIF output;
pluses: advanced optimization options for the microphone, headphones;
cons: may emit digital noise when the load on the central processor increases.

For games

The Sound Blaster series board guarantees complete immersion in the sound world of PC games:

model name: Creative Sound Blaster X;
price: 5000 rubles;
characteristics: 24 bit / 192 kHz, PCI-E interface, 6 multichannel audio outputs, ASIO 2.0;
pluses: excellent software, compatible with many programs;
cons: when the sound is amplified, rattling appears, background noise.

Game acoustic module UR22 differs from analogs in the absence of distracting noise:

model name: Steinberg UR22;
price: 12,000 rubles;
characteristics: USB 3.0 interface, 24 bit / 192 kHz, 2 multichannel XLR, Jack, analog outputs;
pluses: availability of all necessary connectors;
cons: registering in the driver support program can cause confusion for the user.

Best budget sound card

There are inexpensive audio cards on sale that are not inferior in quality to expensive options:

model name: ASUS Xonar U3
price: 1400 rubles;
characteristics: external audio card, USB 3.0, 2 analog outputs, 16 bit / 42 kHz;
pros: excellently improves the sound quality of a low-power device;
cons: lack of ASIO support.

Creative offers cards not exceeding 2,000 rubles at a cost:

model name: Creative SB Play;
price: 1600 rubles;
characteristics: USB 1.1, DAC 16 bit / 48 kHz, 2 analog connectors;
pluses: small, convenient audio card, durability;
cons: Output frequency is lower than most internal integrated boards.

How to choose a sound card

To find a suitable audio card for a laptop or computer, pay attention to the following criteria when choosing:

Form factor. He's the type of location. An external card is needed only in certain cases, and an internal card is not suitable for every device.
Playback sampling rate. Audio file formats may have different requirements for the frequency of the synthesized wave. For a standard MP3 file you need 44.1 kHz, and for a DVD format it is already 192 kHz.
Signal to noise level. The higher the value, the better the sound. Standard sound is 70 to 80 decibels, ideal is about 100 dB.

External

The discrete sound card is designed to connect to powerful professional audio systems for near-perfect sound. It is also suitable for fans of computer games in which the sound component plays an important role. Important parameters:

Housing. Any external module is subject to potential danger. The shell must be made of impact-resistant material.
Connectors and number of channels. The more types the better. Not all audio systems use standard jack, mini-jack, micro-jack outputs.

Internal

The choice of an internal audio card or board is mainly based on the presence of a slot for it or the type of attachment to the motherboard, but there are other criteria:

Connection type. The PCI slot was used in older motherboard models; most manufacturers have replaced it with PCI-Express. First, find out which connector is supported by your computer.
Mount type. Internal cards can be discrete and integrated. To install the latter, you may need the help of a computer wizard.

Video

To sing karaoke with friends, record a track of your music group or enjoy a live concert of your favorite singer, you do not have to visit specialized places and pay a lot of money. With a sufficiently powerful computer at home, you can create an entry-level professional audio studio using a conventional USB or PCI sound card. The high-quality workmanship of the board using precious metals ensures a high level of output signal and ample opportunities for recording vocals.

For various purposes, you can choose the optimal functionality or give preference to the All inclusive device. There are also built-in and portable models, the choice of which is very large.

We have compiled a list of the best sound cards based on expert opinions and feedback from real customers. Our recommendations will help you make the best choice for your requirements and desires. There are many competitors on the world market for equipment, but we have selected the best manufacturers and recommend that you pay special attention to them:

Budget / Inexpensive

Creative
BEHRINGER

Creative

Dear / Premium

Steinberg
Creative

For Music For Computer Budgetary Internal External For Gaming Hi-Fi

* Prices are valid at the time of publication and are subject to change without prior notice.

Sound cards: For music

* from user reviews

Minimum price:

The main advantages

Professional audio card for creating your own recording studio. Based on the Creative E-MU chip
The ability to connect multi-channel speakers 5.1 or 7.1
Two microphone inputs with simultaneous recording at 24 bit 96 kHz. Support for EAX 4.0 and ASIO 2.0 technologies
Dedicated line-in for connecting musical instruments
Proprietary software with a wide range of capabilities: applying effects when recording vocals in real time, adjusting the headphones and digital output, adjusting the sound with an equalizer, changing the environment, creating your own presets and much more
Karaoke player for vocal lovers, compatible with Smart Recorder and WaveStudio applications for recording and creating full-fledged tracks

Internal / Computer / Music

The main advantages

Gaming grade model based on C-Media 6632AX chip with 384 kHz sampling rate
8-channel DAC with support for 24-bit 192 kHz recording and ASIO 2.0
HyperGroun PCB technology eliminates interference and pickup
Separate external control unit for quick adjustment of microphone and headphone sound parameters, as well as enabling RAID mode
Separate DACs and ADCs have a dynamic range of 120 dB, which means high detail of all reproduced sound effects
Supports studio headphones up to 600 ohms and multichannel speakers
Convenient adjustment of sound schemes using STRIX SONIC STUDIO proprietary software

Show all products in the category "For music"

Sound Cards: Budget

External / Computer / Budget

The main advantages

External sound card that can be connected to any device using a standard USB cable. No additional power required
Built-in DAC allows reproduction of 16-bit stream at up to 48 kHz
ASIO protocol support provides the user with an interface to access input and output signal settings, and also eliminates possible delays during real-time recording
Thanks to the S / PDIF connector, you can connect external digital devices (home theaters, receivers, amplifiers) to turn stereo into 5.1 surround sound
Simultaneous connection of acoustics and headphones with the possibility of software shutdown and adjustment

Internal / Computer / Budget

The main advantages

A complete audio system with SBX Pro Studio technology for 5.1 surround sound. Three output connectors are provided for connection
Dedicated front soundbar connector on PC case
The headphone channel output has its own power amplifier IC
Detailed adjustment of all sound parameters using proprietary software. A separate utility allows you to quickly change the volume, adjust the equalizer
The ability to amplify the microphone power offers a karaoke practice at home. Real-time voice change effects available

Budget / External / For computer / For music

The main advantages

The sound card is equipped with all connectors that ensure compatibility with sound recording and concert devices - microphones, mixers, musical instruments
High quality digital-to-analog converter (DAC) for processed sound does not need software correction
XENYX input preamplifier allows for particularly clear and clear sound from the microphone
Dual-channel USB bus ensures full matching of analog and digital channels
The device is compatible with all popular audio processing software. In addition, 150 plugins, effects and instruments are available on the Behringer website for free use.

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Sound Cards: External

Hi-Fi / External / For computer / For music

The main advantages

The presence of a DAC (Cirrus Logic CS4398) and ADC (Cirrus Logic CS5361) provides for the connection of any devices (smartphone, PC, tablet) with a tax or digital module
Compact and self-contained sound card with its own 3200 mAh battery and the ability to charge other devices via the micro-USB connector. Working time reaches 8 hours
Synchronization with external devices via Bluetooth 4.1. MultiPoint technology allows you to connect multiple gadgets at the same time. Additionally, an NFC module is provided, providing communication at a distance of 10 meters
Separate controls on the body allow you to start and stop tracks, answer incoming calls, switch headphone gain
Use as an external audio card for a PC via a standard USB connector
Additional software allows you to adjust all the output characteristics of the sound (crystallization, bass, vocal enhancement, equalizer)

Hi-Fi / External / For games / For computer / For music

The main advantages

The powerful Burr-Brown PCM1794 D / A converter can reproduce stunning 24-bit / 192 kHz sound quality
Support for parallel processing of 32 audio streams using the EMU32 bus allows you to simultaneously use multiple inputs and outputs of the device
SBX Pro Studio technology delivers surround sound and distortion-free low-frequency listening with headphones
Thanks to the implementation of the aptX Low Latency and AAC decoders, there is no loss in the quality of music when transmitting audio via Bluetooth and accurate synchronization of the picture with sound in films and games occurs
Supports CrystalVoice technology for clear and clear voice for gaming, video conferencing and chat. Built-in stereo microphone provided

Type