What is a sound card (audio interface) for? Sound card for a computer - “ears and mouth” of a PC

There was a time when the question of needing a sound card was not raised at all. If you need a sound in your computer that is a little better than the grunting of the speaker in the case, buy it sound card. If you don't need it, don't buy it. However, the cards were quite expensive, especially while they were being made for the prehistoric ISA port.

With the transition to PCI, it became possible to shift part of the calculations to CPU, and also use RAM to store music samples (in ancient times, this need was not only for professional musicians, but also for normal people, because the most popular music format on computers 20 years ago was MIDI). So soon sound cards entry level became much cheaper, and then built-in sound appeared in top-end motherboards. It's bad, of course, but it's free. And this dealt a severe blow to sound card manufacturers.

Today, absolutely all motherboards have built-in sound. And in expensive ones it is even positioned as high quality. That's straight up Hi-Fi. But in reality, unfortunately, this is far from the case. Last year I built a new computer, where I installed one of the most expensive and objectively best motherboards. And, of course, they promised high-quality sound on discrete chips, and even with gold-plated connectors. They wrote it so well that I decided not to install a sound card and make do with the built-in one. And he got by. About a week. Then I disassembled the case, installed the card and didn’t bother with any more nonsense.

Why is the built-in sound not very good?

Firstly, the issue of price. A decent sound card costs 5-6 thousand rubles. And it’s not a matter of manufacturers’ greed, it’s just that the components are not cheap, and the requirements for build quality are high. A serious motherboard costs 15-20 thousand rubles. Is the manufacturer ready to add at least three thousand more? Will the user get scared without having time to evaluate the sound quality? It's better not to take risks. And they don't take risks.

Secondly, for truly high-quality sound, without extraneous noise, interference and distortion, the components must be located at a certain distance from each other. If you look at the sound card, you will see how unusually much free space there is on it. But on the motherboard there is just enough space for it, everything has to be placed very tightly. And, alas, there is simply nowhere to do it really well.

Twenty years ago, consumer sound cards cost more than a computer, and they had memory slots (!) for storing music samples. The photo shows the dream of all computer geeks in the mid-nineties - Sound Blaster AWE 32. 32 is not the bit depth, but the maximum number of simultaneously playable streams in MIDI

Therefore, integrated sound is always a compromise. I have seen boards with seemingly built-in sound, which, in fact, floated on top in the form of a separate platform connected to the “mother” only by a connector. And yes, it sounded good. But can such sound be called integrated? Not sure.

For a reader who has not tried discrete sound solutions, the question may arise - what exactly does “good sound in a computer” mean?

1) He's simply louder. Even a budget-level sound card has a built-in amplifier that can “pump” even large speakers or high-impedance headphones. Many people are surprised that the speakers stop wheezing and choking at maximum. This is also a side effect of a normal amplifier.

2) The frequencies complement each other, and do not mix, turning into mush. A normal digital-to-analog converter (DAC) well “draws” the bass, mids and highs, allowing you to very accurately customize them using software to suit your own taste. When listening to music, you will suddenly hear each instrument separately. And the films will delight you with the effect of presence. In general, the impression is as if the speakers were previously covered with a thick blanket, and then it was removed.

3) The difference is especially noticeable in games.. You'll be surprised that the sound of the wind and dripping water doesn't drown out the quiet footsteps of your rivals around the corner. That in headphones, not necessarily expensive ones, there is an understanding of who is moving, where from and at what distance. This directly affects performance. It simply won’t be possible to sneak up/drive up to you on the sly.

What kind of sound cards are there?

When did this type of component become of interest only to connoisseurs? good sound, of which, unfortunately, there are very few, there are very few manufacturers left. There are only two – Asus and Creative. The latter is generally a mastodon of the market, having created it and set all the standards. Asus entered it relatively late, but it still hasn’t left.

New models are released extremely rarely, and old ones are sold for a long time, 5-6 years. The fact is that in terms of sound you can’t improve anything there without a radical increase in price. And few people are willing to pay for audiophile perversions in a computer. I would say no one is ready. The quality bar is already set too high.

The first difference is the interface. There are cards that are designed only for desktop computers, and they are installed into the motherboard via PCI-E interface xpress. Others connect via USB and can be used with either large computers, and with laptops. The latter, by the way, have disgusting sound in 90% of cases, and an upgrade certainly wouldn’t hurt it.

The second difference is the price. If we are talking about internal cards, then 2-2.5 thousand Models are sold that are almost similar to built-in sound. They are usually purchased in cases where the connector on the motherboard has died (alas, a common phenomenon). An unpleasant feature of cheap cards is their low resistance to interference. If you place them close to the video card, background sounds will be very annoying.

The golden mean for built-in maps is 5-6 thousand rubles. It already has everything to please a normal person: interference protection, high-quality components and flexible software.

For 8-10 thousand The latest models are sold that can reproduce 32-bit sound in the 384 kHz range. This is right here top top. If you know where to get files and games in this quality, be sure to buy them :)

Even more expensive sound cards differ little in hardware from the already mentioned options, but they acquire additional equipment - external modules for connecting devices, companion boards with outputs for professional sound recording, etc. It depends on the actual needs of the user. Personally, I have never needed the body kit, although in the store it seemed like it was needed.

For USB cards, the price range is approximately the same: from 2 thousand alternative to built-in sound, 5-7 thousand strong middle peasants, 8-10 high end and beyond that everything is the same, but with a rich body kit.

Personally, I stop hearing the difference at the golden mean. Simply because cooler solutions also require high-end speakers and headphones, and to be honest, I don’t see much point in playing World of Tanks with thousand-dollar headphones. Probably, every problem has its own solutions.

Several good options

Several sound cards and adapters that I tried and liked.

PCI-Express interface

Creative Sound Blaster Z. It's been on sale for 6 years now, it costs about the same on different computers, and I'm still very happy with it. The CS4398 DAC used in this product is old, but audiophiles compare its sound to CD players in the $500 range. The average price is 5500 rubles.

Asus Strix Soar. If everything in the Creative product is shamelessly geared towards games, then Asus has also taken care of music lovers. The ESS SABRE9006A DAC is comparable in sound to the CS4398, but Asus offers more fine-tuned parameters for those who like to listen to Pink Floyd on their computer in HD quality. The price is comparable, about 5500 rubles.

USB interface

Asus Xonar U3– a small box, when inserted into a laptop port, takes the sound quality in it to a new level. Despite the compact dimensions, there was even room for a digital output. And the software is simply surprisingly flexible. An interesting option to try is why you need a sound card at all. Price 2000 rubles.

Creative Sound BlasterX G5. The device is the size of a pack of cigarettes (smoking is evil) and its characteristics are almost indistinguishable from the internal Sound Blaster Z, but there is no need to climb anywhere, just plug the plug into USB port. And right away you have seven-channel sound of impeccable quality, all sorts of gadgets for music and games, as well as a built-in USB port in case you don’t have enough of them. Availability of space allowed us to sit down additional amplifier for headphones, and once you hear it in action, it’s hard to get out of the habit. The main functions of the software are duplicated by hardware buttons. The issue price is 10 thousand rubles.

Play and listen to music with pleasure! There are not so many of them, these pleasures.

Modern world computer technology is developing at the speed of light, this has affected absolutely all areas of this progressive industry. And sound is one of these spheres, without which the picture of computer harmony looks completely incomplete. And provide high quality sound, entrusted to such an important component of the computer as the sound card. Sound cards can be divided into two types: Internal and external; each type of card has its own advantages and disadvantages, which should definitely be discussed. And now first things first...

Internal sound cards

Such cards are already built into system units and laptops. And they are intended for ordinary use, without any frills. In fact, such cards are considered a budget option. They are universally suitable for watching a movie, listening to music or playing a game. Such a sound card will provide a standard range of reproduced sounds in stereo mode.

An internal card is usually inserted into the system unit via a PCI slot. It is invisible, many even have little idea what it looks like, since it is hidden in the body system unit and neither her nor the wires are visible. In what case is this sound card suitable for you?

If you are not picky about sound quality, do not play games that use surround sound technology, or watch movies in surround sound format Dolby surround and you are an ordinary user who is satisfied with the standard sound quality without any special sound effects.

External sound cards

But this “device” is a completely separate conversation. This is a completely separate device that is in no way built under the PC lid. As a rule, such sound cards are relatively small in size, which allows you to save on space. In addition, such sound cards have a very stylish and at the same time not flashy or unnerving design. A distinctive feature of external sound cards is the abundance of outputs, mostly eight. Which allows us to draw a conclusion about the possibilities in comparison with the internal map.

An external sound card is the key to the door called 5.1 surround sound. It is with its help that the sound on your laptop or computer will sound much more spacious. The functional part of the external sound card is more than diverse and each of the outputs on it plays its own, strictly assigned role. The most important connector is used to connect to a PC, output to the front speakers, output to the rear speakers, to the center speaker, as well as a microphone, headphones, line-in, as well as other connectors that may also come in handy over time.

So, what does an external sound card give us in the end, in what ways does it outperform the internal one and vice versa. An external sound card will allow you to watch movies with surround sound, thanks to DTS (Digital surround and Dolby Digital) technology with the effect of presence, that is, explosions behind you, screams of the dead on the left and right, and so on. Also, almost all advanced gamers use external sound cards due to a standard called EAX advanced HD.

Which allows you to get realistic, surround sound in modern, cool toys. And the presence of a digital output will always provide excellent sound quality, without any distortion. The key factor is the price of such a card, and it is an order of magnitude higher than the usual internal one. It is ideal for gamers, music lovers or movie buffs who value impressive sound effects and high-quality surround sound.

Conclusion

The market is full of all kinds of sound cards and choosing a suitable sound card will not be difficult. Which card to choose depends specifically on the person and his expectations. If the user is not pretentious and is used to normal sound speakers, then a standard internal sound card is ideal for all those purposes for which speakers are typically used. If the user is interested in the most powerful, surround sound, then an external sound card is needed. And you can choose the individually required card thanks to numerous reviews on the Internet or in a computer supermarket, after consulting with a specialist.

To enable audio playback devices to function, your computer or laptop requires a sound card, also called an audio card. Such devices can be external or internal.

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

What is a sound card

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

Device

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

Types of sound cards

You can find audio cards on the market in a shockproof, waterproof case. This type would be better suited for connecting an advanced audio system and running powerful games. Separate boards and integrated audio cards are a more standard solution, characterized by average parameters. Cards are divided into three types according to the possibility of dismantling and location relative to the device:

integrated;
internal discrete;
external discrete.

The best sound cards

Choosing a sound card is difficult. Such devices are multifunctional, so the set of characteristics for one audio card can be strikingly different from any other. Many expensive modules should only be purchased on sale or at a discount, because their price may be inflated. To understand which sound cards are suitable for a specific purpose, check out the advantages, disadvantages, features and parameters of the best models.

Professional

This audio card occupies a position a class above other external devices on the market. It is an excellent choice for studio recording:

Model name: Motu 8A;
price: 60,000 rub.;
characteristics: USB 3.0 connection, additional thunderbolt interface, Ethernet.
pros: ASIO 2.0 support, control module on the case;
cons: high price, fragile shell.

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

Model name: Motu 624;
price: 60,000 rub.;
characteristics: thunderbolt connection, via USB ports, 2 XLR inputs;
advantages: simultaneous work with several multi-channel systems;
cons: necessity additional food, gets very hot.

Multichannel

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

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

ASUS is distinguished by the reliability, quality, and durability of its devices. See for yourself using the Xonar DGX as an example:

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

PCI cards

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

model name: ASUS Xonar D1;
price: 5000 rub.;
characteristics: PCI interface, DAC 24 bit/192 kHz, multi-channel audio 7.1;
pros: optical S/PDIF output, support for EAX v.2, ASIO 2.0;
Cons: Periodically produces loud digital noise.

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

Model name: Creative Audigy;
price: 3000 rub.;
characteristics: PCI interface, coaxial output, 1 mini-Jack connector;
pros: 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 provide great audio anywhere:

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

External computer modules should not only be convenient, but also of high quality. Line 6 POD will give you the opportunity to place an extended audio system anywhere:

Model name: Line 6 POD studio UX2;
price: 16,000 rub.;
characteristics: 24 bit/96 kHz, stereo audio outputs, 7.1 multi-channel audio;
pros: ability to connect many devices, excellent noise reduction;
Cons: the price does not correspond to the functionality and quality.

With optical output

Fiber optic cables provide unmatched protection against interference. Experience clear sound with Universal Audio cards:

model name: Universal Audio Apollo Twin SOLO Thunderbolt;
price: 40,000 rub.;
characteristics: optical output S/PDIF, EAX v.2, ASIO 2.0;
pros: clear multi-channel sound, excellent card for studio recording;
cons: small number of outputs.

WITH by ASUS purchasing a high-quality audio card has never been easier. An excellent combination of cost/quality and clear sound will help you appreciate any track:

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

Sound card 7.1

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

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

Multi-channel analog audio outputs facilitate comfortable listening to your favorite music with any audio systems:

Model name: BEHRINGER U-PHORIA UM2;
price: 4000 rub.;
characteristics: USB interface, ASIO 1.0, 2 analog outputs;
pros: perfect for rough recording of a vocal part;
Cons: There is no separate headphone volume control.

Sound card 5.1

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

Model name: Creative SB 5.1 VX;
price: 2000 rub.;
characteristics: integrated 5.1 system sound card;
pros: suitable for any computer, the card connects easily and quickly;
Cons: sound chips are poorly soldered, which causes sound 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 rub.;
characteristics: 6 multi-channel audio outputs;
pros: support for sound extensions of modern computers;
Cons: the card is not suitable for music lovers due to its low bit depth.

Audiophile

True music lovers will be able to appreciate the ideal sound available with ASUS Sonar Essence audio cards:

model name: ASUS Sonar Essence STX II 7.1;
price: 18,000 rub.;
characteristics: 8 outputs, incl. coaxial S/PDIF;
pros: clear reproduction of vocals and instrumental music;
cons: no SSD hard drives create strong background noise.

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

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

For headphones

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

Model name: MOTU Audio Express;
price: 30,000 rub.;
characteristics: USB 2.0 interface, coaxial input/output, 2 headphone jacks;
pros: robust body, clear playback through headphones;
cons: close location of external controls.

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

Model name: Tascam US366;
price: 10,000 rub.;
characteristics: USB 2.0, instrument output, phantom power.
pros: analog outputs and jack provide ideal sound;
cons: unstable drivers.

For laptops

Audio cards for laptops are gaining popularity. External modules will improve the sound:

Model name: Creative X-FI Surround 5.1 Pro;
price: 5000 rub.;
characteristics: USB 2.0 interface, Asio v.2.0, 5.1 multi-channel sound, 6 analog connectors;
pros: 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 rub.;
characteristics: 24 bit/96 kHz, 6 audio outputs, connection via USB 2.0, optical output S/PDIF;
pros: advanced optimization options for microphone and headphones;
Cons: May produce digital noise when CPU load increases.

For games

The Sound Blaster line board guarantees complete immersion into the sound world of a computer game:

Model name: Creative Sound Blaster X;
price: 5000 rub.;
characteristics: 24 bit/192 kHz, PCI-E interface, 6 multi-channel audio outputs, ASIO 2.0;
pros: excellent software, compatible with many programs;
cons: when the sound is amplified, rattling and background noise appear.

The gaming acoustic module UR22 differs from analogues in the absence of distracting noise:

Model name: Steinberg UR22;
price: 12,000 rub.;
characteristics: USB 3.0 interface, 24 bit/192 kHz, 2 multi-channel outputs XLR, Jack, analog;
pros: availability of all necessary connectors;
Cons: Registration in the driver support program can be confusing 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 rub.;
characteristics: external audio card, USB 3.0, 2 analog outputs, 16 bit/42 kHz;
pros: perfectly improves the sound quality of a low-power device;
cons: lack of ASIO support.

The company Creative offers cards that cost no more than 2,000 rubles:

model name: Creative SB Play;
price: 1600 rub.;
characteristics: USB 1.1, DAC 16 bit/48 kHz, 2 analog connectors;
pros: 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. This is also the type of location. An external card is only needed certain cases, and the internal one will not fit every device.
Playback sampling rate. Audio file formats may have different requirements for the frequency of the synthesized waveform. For a standard MP3 file you need 44.1 kHz, and for the DVD format it is already 192 kHz.
Signal/noise level. The higher the value, the better the sound. Standard sound– from 70 to 80 decibels, ideal – about 100 dB.

External

The discrete sound card is designed to connect powerful professional audio systems that create almost perfect sound. It is also suitable for fans of computer games in which the sound component plays a large role. Important parameters:

Frame. Any external module exposed 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 based mainly on the availability of a slot for it or the type of attachment to the motherboard, but there are other criteria:

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

Video

It has become optional in a computer - the built-in audio chips on motherboards can more than satisfy the needs of most consumers. But many companies continue to produce separate sound cards - they are positioned as the ultimate solutions for gamers, music and movie lovers.

It is worth noting that in this article we hardly consider sound cards for professional use(for sound recording). This is a completely separate conversation, but today we will talk about sound cards for audiophiles, demanding gamers and lovers of quality cinema. We also note that we will not consider cards that are too cheap - buying them in the vast majority of cases simply does not make sense, since they are no better than the chips in modern motherboards. However, we will still offer you a couple of not too expensive options.

In the next section, we will talk about the important characteristics of sound cards that should be taken into account when choosing, and then we will tell you about ten models worthy of your attention that can be bought from sellers in our catalog.

Main characteristics worth paying attention to

All computer sound cards can be divided into three types - internal, external and internal with an additional unit. The former are connected directly to the computer motherboard, and their outputs are located on the rear and/or front panels of the PC case. The latter are connected using USB, FireWire or other ports and are located on the table or somewhere near the case. Internal sound cards with an extension box allow you to connect additional devices to the box without having to look for inputs and outputs on the back of your computer.

If you want another stylish device to decorate your interior and desktop, then you can take a closer look at external cards. In other cases, internal models are better - they save space and are easier to use.

Connection type

Internal models are connected using PCI or PCI-Express slots (the latter is used in newer and more advanced models). External cards are connected to the PC using USB or FireWire cables (mostly USB; FireWire is rarely used in professional audio cards).

Don’t worry about the ability to connect the internal model - if you have a more or less modern PC (we’re talking about computers built in the last 5-8 years), then PCI-Express slots and PCI of the necessary versions are in it.

If you choose an external audio card, it is better to connect it using a faster version of USB - USB 3.0. Make sure your computer has such a port or buy an additional PCI expansion card with it. However, USB 3.0 is not required for audio speeds - most models provide a connection via USB 2.0, which is enough in almost all cases.

Multichannel audio

The ability to output multi-channel audio is important for games and movies, and sometimes music. If you have an appropriate audio system or multi-channel headphones, then you need to look for an audio card that can handle them.

Sound scheme

The most popular sound schemes for games and movies are 5.1 (5 speakers and 1 subwoofer), 6.1 (6 speakers and 1 subwoofer) and 7.1 (7 speakers and 1 subwoofer). Again, if you have such an audio system or headphones, make sure that the future sound card supports the desired circuit.

Built-in controller panel

Some external audio cards are equipped with such a panel. It houses various controls that are needed to control volume and other audio output or input parameters. Optional, but nice thing.

Phantom power

This function is equipped with professional models designed for recording sound from condenser microphones in studio conditions. Note that phantom power is not needed to record sound from dynamic microphones.

Remote control

The presence of a remote control allows you to control volume, equalizer settings and other sound parameters remotely. It’s quite a convenient “trick” for a PC media center and fans of movies or games on TV, but you shouldn’t focus on it - there are always enough ways to control these parameters without a remote control.

DAC capacity, bit

The sound quality at the output of the audio card directly depends on the bit depth of the digital-to-analog converter. Cheap models are usually equipped with a 16-bit DAC, while mid-budget and expensive ones are equipped with a 24-bit one. Needless to say, you should only choose models with a 24-bit DAC.

ADC capacity, bit

Bit depth analog-to-digital converter directly affects the quality of sound the card receives from a microphone or other external devices. The situation is the same as with a DAC - if you are going to record audio or at least communicate with other players in online games, then it is better to choose a 24-bit ADC.

Maximum frequency, kHz

The sampling rate of the DAC in stereo mode also affects the sound quality. The optimal sampling rate in stereo mode is 48-192 kHz.

Also, audio cards differ in the sampling frequency of the DAC in multi-channel mode(recommended value - 48-192 kHz) and ADC sampling frequency (recommended value - 96-192 kHz).

EAX version

EAX is a technology developed by Creative that allows gamers to fully immerse themselves in a three-dimensional audio panorama of the gaming world. Latest version EAX is the fifth, but in games you can be content with older versions - even the second. It is worth noting, however, that not all developers use EAX.

OpenAL is an API open to developers that allows you to process sounds in the 3D space of games. Quite an important, but not critical function for gaming sound cards.

The audio card's support for ASIO technology allows you to use professional software packages for working with sound and music. If you are going to do this, make sure that the card supports ASIO 2.0 or ASIO 2.2.

Inputs

If you only need a sound card for games, movies and music, then you won’t need many inputs - one input for a 3.5 mm minijack microphone is enough.

If you plan to make music and sound professionally and are looking for a model for a home studio, then make sure that you have all the inputs you need in the present and near future - for microphones, instruments and other devices that you will use in the studio. These can be MIDI, RCA, S/PDIF, XLR inputs and so on.

Exits

A computer sound card for home use must have at least two analog outputs - for headphones and an audio system. If you have more audio devices to which you want to output sound, then select the appropriate model. For audiophiles and cinephiles, it is important to have S/PDIF outputs, which can be used to connect high-quality audio systems and home theaters.

Do you like listening to music and watching movies on your computer? Then you can't do without a sound card

According to the definition given in books on computer literacy For dummies or computer science textbooks, a sound card for a laptop or desktop PC means a special device that can be integrated on the motherboard or be external, used for playing and processing incoming sound signal. Using an audio card, you can listen to music, watch full-fledged movies, or enjoy gaming. Using special programs, you can process sound or create music yourself.

NOTE:

the process of processing audio on a computer involves editing recordings, eliminating noise, digitizing analog compositions for saving them on modern types of media, mixing music or embedding a frequency range.

Most modern sound cards are equipped with multiple outputs, including a jack for connecting speakers, a microphone or headphones.

This device may have different names:

audio input/output device;
sound card;
audio card;
audio device.

The card itself can be represented by a separate expansion card placed in the corresponding connector of the motherboard, or it can look like an integrated chipset soldered on the motherboard. It all depends on the model and manufacturer.

Why do you need a sound card in a computer?

Some users wonder what a sound card is for a computer. This is a necessary part that is found in every PC or laptop. Its purpose is to process the incoming audio signal and reproduce it.

Even the sounds that are built into the system and notify the user about events on the computer cannot be reproduced without the presence of this part. Also, users who play music professionally will need to buy a sound card for their computer, since it allows them to process sound and write their own works. Gamers install external sound cards on their laptops for better sound and more immersive gaming experience. gameplay. The presence of connectors in the audio card for connecting external speakers or headphones makes it possible to watch movies, listen to music or have online conversations with relatives or friends using Skype or other similar programs.

The simplest sound card is a board with a set of chips and the necessary outputs

What does a sound card look like for a PC?

To understand what a sound card looks like in a computer, you can look at the photo. Also, the method of determining where exactly the sound device is hidden in the PC will depend on its type and the type of computer (desktop or laptop). How to identify a sound card in desktop computer? This can be done by disassembling the case. On the motherboard you need to find a small chip (microcircuit), on which the name of the manufacturer's company will be printed. This method determines the sound card soldered to the motherboard.

NOTE:

if it is built-in, but connected as a separate device, then its location will be the corresponding slot. Usually this is PCI-Express. In this case, the presence of a sound card on the computer will be indicated by the various outputs on the rear wall of the system unit.

It is more difficult to disassemble a laptop, so you can determine exactly where the sound card will be located by looking at the external connectors. Typically, portable PC models have only two outputs - for a microphone and headphones or speakers.

On the motherboard, the sound card is represented by a small chip indicating the manufacturer

Main types of sound cards for computers

There are only two main types of audio devices for a PC - an external sound card for a computer and an internal or built-in one. They differ in their appearance and set of characteristics. The purposes for using these devices in the system also differ slightly.

External USB sound card

This device is a separate block, inside of which there is a set of chips responsible for converting and playing sound, connected to a computer via a USB port. Using an external device is an opportunity to significantly improve sound quality. Most often, such systems are used for laptops, since discrete audio chips cannot produce high-quality audio even on expensive models. The need to purchase an external sound card can be caused by two reasons:

desire to get high-quality sound on a laptop PC;
if the main sound card is broken and cannot be repaired, or the replacement procedure will be more expensive than buying a new one.

NOTE:

Connecting speakers is not a solution to the problem of poor quality sound. This will only lead to an increase in volume, at which all the flaws and shortcomings of the built-in audio chip will become more pronounced.

Most often not expensive models External sound cards are no larger than a regular flash drive. More expensive and high-quality ones may resemble a hard drive. The most expensive models, the price of which can reach 10,000, are close in size to the size of the computer itself.

External sound cards are portable and have all the necessary connectors.

All external audio devices have common capabilities:

amplification of the audio stream compared to regular means computer;
ability to connect external speakers, microphone and headphones.

Expensive models can be equipped various sensors, indicators, regulators. Top models additionally have coaxial outputs and analog channels.

The advantages of external sound cards for a computer are:

significant improvement in sound quality;
mobility, which makes it possible to connect the device to any PC;
a wide range of models on sale;
the ability to adjust the main frequency parameters using buttons located on the body of the device.

Internal sound card for computer

As the name implies, this type of device for playing and processing audio streams is a system hidden in the computer case. There is a division of internal audio cards into two categories:

Integrated. This is a chip that is soldered directly onto the board. Similar solution is the most budget option. You should not expect from such a system high-quality sound, although more expensive motherboards may have high-quality chips installed. The advantage of this type is that it reduces the overall cost of the computer. But such an audio device has many more disadvantages:

after being placed on the motherboard, the chip begins to be affected by electrical noise, which distorts the analog signal;
lack of its own processor, which leads to increased CPU load;
inability to connect powerful audio systems.

Integrated cards are soldered into the board and have connectors for connecting devices located on the back wall of the PC.

Discrete. This type is a separate board that is installed in a PCI slot. Discrete cards are considered the oldest options. There are many manufacturers who specialize in producing discrete options. The use of this type has a number of advantages:

the presence of its own sound processor, which reduces the load on the CPU and does not slow down the PC;
producing higher quality sound;
the ability to connect powerful external audio playback devices;
the presence of a disk containing drivers for the sound card for Windows 7 or another operating system.

A discrete audio card is a separate card installed in a PCI-Express slot

Main technical characteristics of sound cards and available connectors

The main parameter that determines the effectiveness of a sound card is high-quality audio playback without unnecessary interference and distortion. Most devices have digital and analog inputs.

NOTE:

in practice, it turns out that the analog input/output produces interference when playing sound. But professional musicians believe that analog sound has a “warmth” that digital cannot provide.

Signal converter

Since a computer is digital device, and the sound is analog physical phenomenon, requires the use of special tools for conversion. On a sound card, a separate chip called a DAC, or digital-to-analog converter, is responsible for this. The conversion process occurs in two stages:

first, signal samples that coincide with the sampling frequency are isolated from the data stream;
Then, by interpolation or smoothing, a time-continuous analog signal is formed.

There is also a reverse conversion technique, when an analog stream is received at the input, which needs to be done computer understandable, which means representing the signal in a set of numbers.

Scheme of operation of DAC and ADC

DAC capacity

Another characteristic that is closely related to conversion is the bit depth of the digital-to-analog converter. Bit depth is the number of bits of the input code or the minimum number of units digital information or bits. Usually the representation is used binary number, the bit depth of which exceeds 16.

Increasing this indicator is required to expand the dynamic range.

To obtain sound with minimal distortion, you need to use a DAC with the maximum number of bits. Higher conversion parameters corresponding to 24 or 32 bits are used during audio signal processing. For playback, 16-bit is usually sufficient.

Sampling frequency involves equalizing the converted signal by reducing the time intervals of individual samples

Sampling rate

Since during conversion the signal is recorded at a certain number of samples, we can talk about time sampling. A situation may arise that these segments will be located at a large interval from each other, which will lead to loss of information and sound distortion. Therefore, for correct audio conversion it is necessary to take samples at the maximum frequency.

The limit is the speed of the DAC. Also than more fixed segments passes through the processor, the more memory is required to be allocated for data storage. A signal that has the form of discrete samples can be converted into an infinite one only if the interval is limited to half the period of the highest signal oscillation in the spectrum. This is why sound card standards use filters that limit the maximum sampling rate.

Traditionally, all connectors are color coded

Interfaces

Almost every sound card for a computer is equipped with a certain set of ports or connectors that are used to connect microphones, headphones, external speakers and other devices. The most common inputs/outputs are the following connectors, differing in color:

pink– for microphone;
blue– linear output;
green– connector for connecting acoustics or headphones;
black– for surround sound system;
grey– when using a 7.1 system, when you need to connect side speakers;
orange– for connection central channel or subwoofer.

Additionally, more advanced models may have an optical output or SPDIF, a coaxial connector that allows for better sound.

The choice of sound card should primarily be determined by its purpose.

How to choose a sound card for your computer

When choosing the optimal sound card for your PC, you should pay attention not only to listed characteristics, but also imagine the purposes for which it will be used, and take a closer look at some additional parameters:

EAX technology support. This is an analogue of DirectSound3D three-dimensional sound, which is used for sound cards. The use of such techniques is important in computer games, because it allows you to achieve the effect of presence. Also this technique used for reflection and reverberation of sound;
presence of ASIO. A protocol that is used to transmit an audio signal with minimal delays, which is important when using editors for audio recording. This technology is also implemented at the hardware level;
Midi. A midi interface is required for musicians who intend to use a computer to create their own arrangements. These connectors are required to connect synthesizers or musical keyboards.

Also, when choosing the optimal card, you should not fall for marketing tricks, since very often the indicated indicators are exaggerated. It is worth paying attention to the DAC manufacturer. The best companies Ti-Burr Brown, Wolfson are considered. Another indicator of quality is the serial number of the converter. The larger the number, the more modern the model.

Asus Strix Raid DLX – best ratio prices and quality among sound cards, according to users

The best manufacturers

ASUS sound cards

One of the market leaders for these products is Taiwanese ASUS company, which is known to a wide range of users for its mobile products - laptops and phones. The manufacturer’s line of audio devices is represented by both budget models (Xonar DG, cost – 2,200 rubles) and premium products, which, according to users, produce almost ideal sound (Strix Raid DLX, cost – 15,000 rubles).

Creative sound cards

Next in the ranking of the best manufacturers is Creative Labs, which specializes in the production of hardware and software. One of the most popular models is Sound Blaster, which is already experiencing its 6th rebirth. The top model of the line is the Sound Blaster ZX, which has the original external design and a remote unit for connecting peripherals and controlling sound parameters. The cost of this card starts from 9,000 rubles.

Sound Blaster ZX is the sixth reincarnation of the sound card from Creative Labs

Other companies

Asus and Creative are the undisputed leaders. Also on the sound card market there are companies such as LynxStudio, which produces mid-price audio devices, C-Media, M-Audio. Distinctive feature audio devices of the latest brand is the focus of the products on recording sound at home. This is expressed in equipping the board with a line input for a guitar or microphone.

Using Device Manager, you can not only see which card is installed, but also update the driver

How to check a sound card on a computer and find out exactly what it costs

The most in a simple way How to find out the sound card on a computer is to use the Windows “Task Manager”. The “Sound, video and gaming devices” item will show all audio devices installed on a specific PC.

Driver for sound card

You can also try to update the sound card driver through Device Manager if you have problems with sound. This will be useful for budget models that do not include special disk with installation software.

The sound card is installed in one of the PCI-Express slots located on the motherboard