I am looking to buy a new sound card and came across this message board. Using this tread - http://www.hydrogenaudio.org/forums/index....showtopic=12257 and some independent research I narrowed down my choice to either the Terratec DMX 6fire LT or the M-Audio Revolution. I am currently using the Turtle Beach Santa Cruz, but lately it has been acting up. I would just get the Audigy 2 ZS but from what I've read it is not up to par with either of these two cards in terms of sound quality. My main concern with the Terratec DMX 6fire LT is drivers since the card is no longer being sold retail (it is however being sold new on eBay). I was wondering which of the two card's drivers are more stable and if Terratec's newer Aureon cards drivers would be compatible with the 6fire (or even necessary)? Also, is there a difference between the DMX 6fire and the DMX 6fire LT besides lack of a break-out box? Any assistance would be appreciated.

I have never had to opportunity to use the DMX 6fire, however, I own the Revolution 7.1 and for what its worth I can verify that its drivers are rock solid in my own unique case. I'm not sure about Terratec but afaik M-audio is quite reputable for their drivers.

Just recently bought DMX 6Fire 24/96. I also wanted to buy LT since I'd use for playing back music mainly. But couldn't find LT in my country.

From all sources I searched before purchasing, LT and 24/96 use the same board. Only connection modules are different. Also they use the same drive. When I installed the driver, it actually asked me to choose the connection module (24/96 or LT).

You may further confirm by asking Terratec directly.

I upgraded from Audigy. 6Fire has much better sound quality. Highly recommended.

Hope it helps.

i too got the DMX 6 fire 24/96 cause there was no LT available, i find the breakout box useful (headphone jack, rca line out/in, digital out/in). you can even have your headphones work at the same time your line outs are. also upgraded from an audigy 2 and the sound quality is excellent (And so are the RMAA results).

thanks for the info/replies guys. I will email Terratec directly to confirm that the boards are the same. I am leaning towards the 6fire LT - the only other concern I have with it is I prefer it if mp3s/cds to play through 4 speakers (stereo x2). I know the Revolution has optional circle surround. Not sure if that is possible w/ the 6fire.

I love SRS CS II

However, Foobar has a convert stereo to 4 channels dsp plugin, so you could still get the 6fire if it suits your needs better.

Yes, 6Fire supports 4 speakers. You can select 2, 4, and 5.1 speakers in configuaration of 6Fire control panel. Each speaker's volume is adjustable too.

As eddie said you can use 2/4/5.1, you also have to enable the "sensaura 3D" function. It is exactly the same CARD as standard DMX6fire, but no breakout box. It's a great card, but I have to say I really miss the breakout box. Especially the phono preamp . The Terratec also supports EAX, which is good for games, some other cards get big framerate hits because lack of support - Audigy Kx drivers do not support this, their only real drawback.

Just thought I should mention, the 6Fire LT is actually discontinued.

@eddie777: You interested in selling your breakout box?