Soundcard USB or internal

[fAt Kaka]

I current have a creative Xtrememusic with logitech z680 setup. I am considering to upgrade. I know I am about to open a can of corn...options:
1. it's not worth it to upgrade, ie marginal benefits
2. with a $100 budget, should I spend it on beer instead?
3. an external soundcard that will kick my ass, which one
4. an internal soundcard that will kick my ass, which one

I like the Z680 and going to keep it.

 

[D0nk3yPunch3r]

This is one I use to use, and never had any issues until i sold the tower.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16829102040&Tpk=Sound Blaster Recon3D PCIe&IsVirtualParent=1

Though if your just looking to change just to do it i would not.

 

[v.Kamikaze]

psh, just use optical out from your onboard sound to your z680's... no need for an expensive soundcard.

 

[fAt Kaka]

I didn't think about that...there is a SPDIF out on my Z77V Pro...I shall try that first.

psh, just use optical out from your onboard sound to your z680's... no need for an expensive soundcard.

 

[fAt Kaka]

okay I still have the xtrememusic soundcard but I have a pair of M audio AV40 now. optical out is not available. should I get a soundcard upgrade? if so, to what?

 

[Snowman]

tough call imo, (god I miss Gravis) but I digress, it's always hard to judge on sound, because everyone "hears" differently imo. balancing cost vs performance it's hard to argue a SB card vs Asus Xonar, but I would choose from those two (I agree with kami that Opti out will def be your best bet too). Hope that helps.

 

[fAt Kaka]

$180 XONAR is hard to justify at the moment.

 

[v.Kamikaze]

wait, what'd you do with your z680's?

 

[Kommando Kodiak]

ASUS Xonar DGX PCI-E GX2.5

39 bux if you get the DG its 26