I am building a new system and trying to decide which audio card to install. Currently I have a 2.1 setup (Klipsch ProMedia). Originally I considered getting an Audigy. However, after reading about problems with audio quality (I'm not much of a gamer), I was leaning toward an M-Audio Revolution 7.1. After doing some reading here and at head-fi, I'm now wondering if I need to look at the Revo or something "higher." I've glanced at the Audiophile 2496, the EMU 0404 and 1212Ms and even a DMX 6fire, but the 6fire is really way more than I want to spend.

Here's my potential use. Right now, I only have a 2.1 system and don't envision myself upgrading any time soon. {I did consider just plugging in my old computer speakers in for a cheap surround, but not sure if this would work]. I mostly listen to music or DVDs. Little gaming. BUT, I have thought about doing a little voice recording (I'm in radio) and wondered if I needed a higher quality card. I don't have a mic yet, but would most likely have a mic plugged into a mixer then the sound card. This is not an immediate application. I just don't want to buy a card and then not regret purchasing something a little better right away. Any suggestions? Thanks in advance from a noobie!

Since you are using 2.1 speaker, and Klipsch is good in its own class (PC Multimedia) speakers, I would recommend E-MU 0404, which is half the price of 1212m but playback quality is pretty close to 1212m.

But do take notes that 0404 output is 2 x 1/4", so prepare yourself some converters.

Thanks, master. So, is the audiophile not quite as good as the 0404? I'm still learning!!!!

I have not heard audiophile, thus I cannot comment on that. However, based on RMAA performance, 0404 definately is better than audiophile.

I would go with the 0404 or the audiophile, whichever you can find cheaper. Or if you are paranoid about recording quality get the 1212, its got pretty insane snr.

Thanks again for the tips. I guess the only thing I'm wondering about at the moment is the usefulness of the 0404 for everyday use...watching DVD's, listening to music, etc. Can I assume that the 0404 would not support a 4.1 or 5.1 speaker system? I get the impression that the 0404 is just high quality stereo (separate L + R). Am I right? Thanks in advance.

0404 only have 2 channel output, which is just fit well in your 2.1 speaker system. If you want multichannel output system, you may want to consider other soundcard.