Chaintech AV-710 PCI Sound Card 7.1

[fps justin]

http://www.ncix.com/products/index.p...4&promoid=1043

What do you guys think of this sound card? Its real cheap. Only 20 bucks. Is it worth it? Its 7.1

[polobunny]

It should be good, I used another card with a Via VT1616 and it worked flawlessly. We sell 5.1 sound cards mostly, but this was a special request for a client that wanted optical out without getting an expensive card. I didn't test it heavily or anything, but it sounded good enough for something we see $28.50.

[fps justin]

Originally Posted by polobunny

It should be good, I used another card with a Via VT1616 and it worked flawlessly. We sell 5.1 sound cards mostly, but this was a special request for a client that wanted optical out without getting an expensive card. I didn't test it heavily or anything, but it sounded good enough for something we see $28.50.

alright, sounds good. (no pun intended)

although, i don't think i'll be buying this thing.

[Lead Head]

If you want something cheap, that sounds better then integrated, then this card is fine .

My intgrated sound just fine but if you want good sound go for an Xfi

[yurimxpxman]

Originally Posted by Night_Xblade

My intgrated sound just fine but if you want good sound go for an Xfi

X-fis are great, but they're dang expensive. He's already stated that he can't afford a $150 sound card. For the price, I think the one he chose would best suit his needs.

[Lead Head]

You don't need an X-FI just to get good sound. Most highend integrated audio actually sounds very good. Its mostly motherboard EMI and such that messes with the sound quality. The quality usually goes way up if its mounted on its own PCB. Plus VIA's driver support > Creative

[screwballl]

I have had nothing but problems with onboard or cheap cards. I had a Creative Live!Value 5.1 card until recently and when I stepped up to the X-Fi recently, it is simply amazing, even with normal 5.1 speakers (SB550)! The XtremeMusic X-Fi version WAS $73 after rebate on newegg! Even under $100 is still a dang good price for the card itself, especially with the performance I have seen!
I never thought much about it until recently with my new build. I am into mostly gaming and media and this card has really shown me what a sound card can do to your sound, even on an older system (XP3000+).

[gvblake22]

I've heard a lot of great things about the AV-710. Like polobunny mentioned, it is an especially great solution for those needing optical out functionality and quality surround sound without it costing an arm and a leg.

I also like my Auzentech HDA XPlosion very much as an alternative to the X-Fi. Just some food for thought.