Sound card(or board) - a device responsible for playing sound. This is an indispensable component of any modern computer, because even such simple actions as listening to music, watching a movie or video, playing the sound of any computer game are impossible without it.

When choosing a sound card for a computer, you should know that they are available in three forms:

  • internal integrated;
  • internal discrete;
  • external.

Integrated sound cards are the most budget option. This is a separate chip soldered into the motherboard. Usually, better sound chips are soldered onto more solid motherboards, and simpler motherboards contain an inexpensive chip (for example, "Realtek").

However, saving on the purchase of a sound card is justified only if the quality of the reproduced sound does not have any high requirements. It should be noted that sound chips themselves can produce a sufficiently high-quality sound, however, after soldering, external factors begin to affect the result of their work. First of all, these are electrical noises that inevitably occur on system board and affect the characteristics of the analog part of the audio signal.

In addition, the built-in sound adapter does not have its own processor. Accordingly, the load on CPU, which in some cases may lead to a delay in the audio signal or “freezing” of the sound. Do not forget that integrated cards are not designed to connect powerful high-end external devices. They can only work with inexpensive headphones and microphones, as well as with multimedia acoustic systems.

Discrete sound cards

Discrete sound card is a stand-alone board that is installed in a free PCI slot. This is the most ancient type of boards - it was their use that at one time turned silent computers into multimedia computers. Discrete cards have a sound processor that performs the functions of sound processing, mixing audio streams, and so on. This makes it possible to reduce the load on the central processor, which, of course, increases the performance of the computer and improves the quality of the audio signal.


Such boards give a more decent sound in comparison with the integrated ones. As a rule, when using them, interference and sound delays are not observed. You can use more powerful external devices - high-quality speakers or headphones, it is possible to connect a home theater system. Usually, a disc with software is supplied with a discrete sound card, which, among other things, allows you to process sound in automatic mode. Manual setting, as a rule, is performed through the audio player installed on the computer.

External sound cards

Installation required for high-quality professional sound external sound card. Of course, it must be a good expensive device. Cheap USB sticks don't sound good. External sound cards have appeared quite recently. They look like small plastic or metal boxes equipped with a certain number of inputs and outputs for connecting external devices. Some boards are additionally equipped with various tuning controls. Such sound cards are connected to the computer when USB help or WiFi interfaces.



Their clear advantage is immunity to external interference and noise. This effect is achieved with the help of special insulation. And the use of high-quality elements in the device allows you to achieve an excellent sound stream. In addition, the external board can be easily and quickly connected to any computer. Of course, to get good sound, you need to use powerful acoustic systems, otherwise spend money on expensive sound card there is absolutely no point.

External boards are much more functional than internal ones. They allow you to use the widest range of possibilities of high-quality audio equipment. In addition to the sound output function, they also implement the function of recording sound signals - there are inputs for connecting various types microphones.

Each external sound card comes with software. As a rule, this is a package of applications that allow you to configure output devices for the most comfortable sound. In addition, they provide automatic update drivers, which is quite convenient.

Results

Summing up, it should be noted that when choosing the type of sound card, first of all, you need to focus on the required sound quality and the level of acoustic equipment that you plan to use.

home computer has long been transformed from a workstation into a full-fledged multimedia device. In addition to surfing the Internet and communicating in the social. networks, a modern PC allows its owner to watch videos, listen to music, process audio files, play, etc. To output an audio signal to speakers or headphones, you need a sound card (SC). Next, consider the existing varieties, purpose and design features these devices.

How to choose a sound card

The main task of a sound card is to convert a digital signal into an analog one, output it to headphones, speakers, etc. Today, all modern motherboards are equipped with an integrated sound card that can provide quite tolerable sound quality. The disadvantages of this solution are:

  • decrease in computer performance due to the consumption of CPU resources;
  • lack of a high-quality signal converter, which is processed using a hardware codec.

These are the main factors forcing users to abandon integrated solutions and purchase discrete models for their computers. In order to choose the right this device, you need to familiarize yourself with the types of sound cards, their purpose, technical characteristics, scope.

Types of sound cards

Today, all sound cards are usually classified according to the following criteria:

  1. Location type. There are integrated, internal, external.
  2. Connection method. Integrated cards - not removable, soldered directly to the motherboard. Internal models connect to the motherboard via PCI or PCI-Express connectors. External, connect to PC via USB port or high-speed interface

Tip: When choosing an inexpensive external model, the best connection option is to use a high-speed USB 3.0 port. If your PC does not have one, then you can purchase an expansion card that connects to the PCI slot.

  1. Specifications. The most significant positions in technical specifications sound module - signal-to-noise ratio, harmonic coefficient. For good cards the first indicator is in the range of 90 - 100 dB; the second is less than 0.00 1%.

Important! Pay attention to the bit depth of the digital-to-analog and analog-to-digital converter. The norm is 24 bits. The higher this indicator, the better quality(ZK).

  1. Appointment. Sound modules can be divided into multimedia, gaming, professional.

External Sound Card

External audio cards are small device, which connects to a laptop or PC via a high-speed FireWire interface. This design solved two main problems: it increased the noise immunity of the card, which had a positive effect on the sound quality, freed up the PCI slot, the number of which is limited in a PC.

Today, there are two FireWire standards: IEEE 1394, which has a bandwidth of 400 Mbps; IEEE 1394b which supports data rates up to 800 Mbps. IEEE 1394 audio cards support up to 52 channels by daisy-chaining devices onto a single bus. External sound cards with FireWire interface are semi-professional and professional equipment.

Important! To connect an external audio card to a laptop, you will need a PCMCI - FireWire adapter.

sound card with usb

These devices appeared on the domestic market about 6 years ago. The device is connected to a PC via the USB port. These models are equipped with a speaker or headphone output and inputs for one or more microphones.

The main advantages of this technology:

  • Versatility. All modern computers are equipped with this interface.
  • Improving the quality of playback, sound recording, compared with integrated models.
  • Mobility, ease of connection, map settings. As a rule, the majority budget models do not require installation of additional drivers. For more expensive models, drivers are supplied with the device.

The disadvantage of these audio converters is the relatively low data transfer rate. For the USB 2.0 interface, the data transfer rate does not exceed 480 Mbps.

Studio sound cards

The recording studio has its own specifics. Studio audio converters are equipped with a variety of input and output connectors for connecting instruments, microphones and other studio equipment. Input connectors:

  • XLR - connector for connecting a condenser microphone.
  • Jasc3. Non-balance jack for connecting instruments such as guitars and other acoustic instruments with pickups.
  • Jasc3. Balanced connector for connecting keyboards, etc.
  • S/PDIF - designed to record a digital stereo signal.

Weekends:

  • Jasc3. Ballast. For signal transmission to other devices.
  • Jasc 5/6.3 For connecting headphones.
  • S/PDIF - designed to transmit a digital stereo signal.

For audio converters to work, manufacturers usually supply drivers. Most modern models don't even have these: studio sound cards use the ASIO protocol which allows the device with the connected instrument to communicate directly.

Sound cards for microphones and guitars

To record sound from a microphone or guitar pickup, almost any external audio card with the required number of input connectors will do. The only thing you need to know when choosing is the quality of the device, which, as a rule, is expressed in its cost. The main problem with picking up sound from a microphone or acoustic guitar pickup is sound distortion. Choose a premium audio converter that will keep your voice and instrument sounding in its original state.

Professional sound cards

A feature of professional audio converters is the lack of drivers in the delivery. In addition, as standard, this type of device does not have tools for adjusting the sound level. All operations are performed programmatically; All information is displayed on a special control panel. Sound quality is ensured by built-in expensive transducers. Lack of interference and distortion - high-quality power filters.

Professional audio cards use ballast inputs and signal outputs. Output connectors adapted for connecting musical instruments: RCA; Jasc6.3; XLR connectors. A feature of professional cards is the ability to support almost all standards, and even such rarely used ones as GSIF and ASIO2.

Features of lexicon sound cards

Lexicon audio converters are external devices that are a full-fledged recording studio.

  • Built-in USB mixer.
  • Specially designed software with reverb plugin.

Equipment: line inputs TRS and TRS and RCA line outputs. Depending on the model, Lexicon sound cards allow you to process multiple input signals simultaneously and record two independent tracks. PC connection via USB interface.

As a conclusion

As noted above, an external sound card can have a USB or FireWire interface. All of them have both positive and negative sides. The correct choice of interface depends solely on the task at hand.

FireWire is the choice if you are a musician and need real-time audio processing. A card with a high-speed interface will be required for those who record sound from 18 or more channels simultaneously. For all other cases, experts recommend using USB audio cards, which are easy to use and do not require additional investments to upgrade your PC.

Every person needs a tool to work. It just so happened that a reasonable person began to be called precisely from the moment the tool was used for any type of activity (the wording is lame, but in general it is). Actually, any musician, being a reasonable person, should be able to at least to some extent own a musical instrument. However, within the framework of this article, we will not talk about a musical instrument in the usual sense (guitar, piano, triangle ...), but about an instrument that is later needed to process an audio signal. It's about the sound interface.

Theoretical basis

Let's make a reservation right away, sound interface, audio interface, sound card - within the framework of the presentation, they are contextual synonyms. In general, a sound card is a kind of subset of the sound interface. From a systems analysis point of view, an interface is something designed to interact with two or more systems. In our case, the systems can be something like this:

  1. sound recording device (microphone) – processing system (computer);
  2. processing system (computer) - sound reproducing device (speakers, headphones);
  3. hybrids 1 and 2.

Formally, all that an ordinary person needs from a sound interface is to take data from the recording device and give it to the computer, or vice versa, take the data from the computer, sending it to the playback device. During the passage of the signal through the audio interface, a special signal conversion is performed so that the receiving party can further process this signal. The playback device (final) somehow reproduces an analog or sine signal, which is expressed as a sound or elastic wave. A modern computer works with digital information, that is, information that is encoded as a sequence of zeros and ones (to put it more precise language, in the form of signals of discrete bands of analog levels). Thus, an obligation is imposed on the audio interface to convert an analog signal to digital and / or vice versa, which is actually the core of the audio interface: a digital-to-analog and analog-to-digital converter (DAC and ADC or DAC and ADC, respectively), as well as piping in in the form of a hardware codec, various filters, etc.
Modern PCs, laptops, tablets, smartphones, etc., as a rule, already have a built-in sound card, which allows you to record and play sounds, if there are recording and playback devices.

This is where one of the most frequently asked questions comes in:

Can the built-in sound card be used for sound recording and/or sound processing?

The answer to this question is very ambiguous.

How a sound card works

Let's figure out what happens to the signal that passes through the sound card. First, let's try to understand how a digital signal is converted to analog. As mentioned earlier, a DAC is used for this kind of conversion. We will not go into the wilds of the hardware stuffing, considering various technologies and element base, we will simply indicate “on the fingers” what happens in the “iron”.

So, we have a certain digital sequence, which is sound signal to output to the device.

111111000011001 001100101010100 1111110011001010 00000110100001 011101100110110001

0000000100011 00010101111100101 00010010110011101 1111111101110011 11001110010010

Here, the encoded little bits of sound are marked with colors. One second of sound can be encoded by a different number of such pieces, the number of these pieces is determined by the sampling frequency, that is, if the sampling frequency is 44.1 kHz, then one second of sound will be divided into 44100 such pieces. The number of zeros and ones in one piece is determined by the sampling depth or quantization, or, simply, the bit depth.

Now, to imagine how the DAC works, let's remember the school geometry course. Imagine that time is the X axis, the level is Y. On the X axis, we mark the number of segments that will correspond to the sampling frequency, on the Y axis - 2 n segments, which will indicate the number of sampling levels, after which, we gradually mark the points that will be match specific sound levels.

It should be noted that in reality, encoding according to the above principle will look like a broken line (orange graph), however, during the conversion, the so-called. approximation to a sinusoid, or simply approximation of the signal to the form of a sinusoid, which will lead to smoothing levels (blue graph).

It will look something like this analog signal, which is obtained as a result of decoding digital. It is worth noting that the analog-to-digital conversion is done exactly the opposite: every 1/sampling_seconds, the signal level is taken and encoded based on their sampling depth.

So, we figured out how the DAC and ADC work (more or less), now it's worth considering what parameters affect the final signal.

Basic parameters of the sound card

In the course of reviewing the operation of the converters, we got acquainted with two main parameters, these are the frequency and sampling depth, we will consider them in more detail.
Sampling frequency- this is, roughly, the number of time segments into which 1 second of sound is divided. Why is it so important for sound people to have a sound card that can operate at a frequency higher than 40 kHz. This is due to the so-called. Kotelnikov’s theorem (yes, mathematics again). If it’s trivial, then, according to this theorem, under ideal conditions, an analog signal can be restored from a discrete (digital) arbitrarily accurately if the sampling frequency is greater than 2 frequency ranges of this same analog signal . That is, if we work with the sound that a person hears (~ 20 Hz - 20 kHz), then the sampling frequency will be (20,000 - 20) x2 ~ 40,000 Hz, hence the de facto standard 44.1 kHz, this is the sampling frequency to most accurately encode the signal plus a little more (this, of course, is exaggerated, since this standard is set by Sony and the reasons are much more prosaic). However, as said before, this is under ideal conditions. Ideal conditions mean the following: the signal should be infinitely long in time and not have singularities in the form of zero spectral power or high-amplitude peak bursts. It goes without saying that a typical audio analog signal does not fit ideal conditions, due to the fact that this signal is finite in time and has bursts and drifts to "zero" (roughly, has time gaps).


Sampling depth or bit depth- this is the number of powers of the number 2, which determines how many intervals the signal amplitude will be divided into. A person, due to the imperfection of his sound apparatus, as a rule, feels comfortable in perception with a signal capacity of at least 10 bits, that is, 1024 levels, a person is unlikely to feel a further increase in capacity, which cannot be said about technology.

As can be seen from the above, when converting a signal, the sound card makes certain “concessions”.

All this leads to the fact that the resulting signal will not exactly repeat the original.

Problems when choosing a sound card

So, a sound engineer or musician (choose yours) bought a computer with a brand new OS, a cool processor, a large amount of RAM with a sound card built into the motherboard, which is promoted by the manufacturer, has outputs to provide a 5.1 sound system, DAC-ADC has a sampling rate of 48 kHz (it's not 44.1 kHz anymore!), 24 bit depth and so on and so forth ... To celebrate, the engineer installs software for sound recording and discovers that this sound card cannot simultaneously “remove” sound, apply effects and instantly play it back. Even if the sound turns out to be of very high quality, however, between the moment when the instrument plays a note, the computer processes the signal and plays it, a certain time will pass or, in simple terms, there is a lag. It's strange, because the consultant from Eldorado praised this computer so much, spoke about the sound card and in general ... and then ... eh. With grief, the engineer goes back to the store, gives back the purchased computer, pays another fabulous amount in order to buy a computer with an even more powerful processor, more RAM, a 96 (!!!) kHz and 24-bit sound card and ... in the end it's the same.

In fact, typical computers with typical built-in sound cards and stock drivers for them are not originally designed to process sound and play it in near real-time mode, that is, they are not designed for VST-RTAS processing. The point here is not at all in the "basic" filling in the form of a processor-operational hard disk memory, each of these components is capable of such a mode of operation, the problem is that this sound card, at times, simply does not "know how" to work in real time.
During the operation of any computer device, due to the difference in operating speeds, so-called. delays. This is expressed in the expectation by the processor of a set of data that is necessary for processing. In addition, when developing both the operating system and drivers, as well as application software, programmers resort to the so-called. the creation of the so-called. software abstractions, this is when each higher layer of the program code “hides” all the complexity of the lower level, providing only the simplest interfaces at its level. Sometimes there are tens of thousands of such abstraction levels. This approach simplifies the development process, but increases the time it takes for data to travel from source to destination and vice versa.

In fact, lags can occur not only with built-in sound cards, but also with those connected via USB, WireFire (down in peace), PCI, etc.

To avoid this kind of lag, developers use workarounds that get rid of unnecessary abstractions and programming transformations. One of these solutions is everyone's favorite ASIO for Widows, JACK (not to be confused with a connector) for Linux, CoreAudio and AudioUnit for OSX. It is worth noting that everything is fine with OSX and Linux and without “crutches” like Windows. However, not every device is capable of operating at the required speed and required accuracy.
Let's say that our engineer/musician belongs to the Kulibins category and was able to set up JACK/CoreAudio or get his sound card to work with the ASIO driver from the "folk craft" company.

At best, in this way our master reduced the lag from half a second to an almost acceptable 100 ms. The problem of the last milliseconds lies, among other things, in the internal signal transmission. When the signal passes from the source through the USB or PCI interface to the central processor, the signal is in charge of the south bridge, which actually works with most of the peripherals and is directly subordinate to the central processor. However, the CPU is an important and busy character, so it does not always have time to process the sound right now, so our master will either have to put up with the fact that these 100 ms can “jump” by ± 50 ms if not more. The solution to this problem can be to buy a sound card with its own data processing chip or DSP (Digital Signal Processor).

As a rule, most of all "external" sound cards (the so-called gaming sound cards) have this kind of coprocessor, but it is very inflexible for operation and is essentially designed to "improve" the reproduced sound. Sound cards that are originally designed for sound processing have a more adequate coprocessor, or, in the limiting version, such a coprocessor is sold separately. The advantage of using a coprocessor is the fact that, if it is used, a special software will process the signal with little or no CPU usage. The disadvantage of this approach may be the price, as well as the "sharpening" of equipment to work with special software.

Separately, I would like to note the interface for pairing a sound card and a computer. The requirements here are quite acceptable: for a sufficiently high processing speed, such interfaces as USB 2.0, PCI will be enough. An audio signal is not really any large amount of data, like a video signal, for example, so the requirements are minimal. However, I will add a fly in the ointment: the USB protocol does not guarantee 100% delivery of information from the sender to the recipient.
We decided on the first problem - large delays when using standard drivers or a high price for using a sound card with an adequate delay.
Earlier, we decided that achieving the ideal transmission of an analog signal is not such an easy task. In addition to this, it is worth mentioning the noise and errors that arise in the process of removing / converting / transmitting a signal as data, because, if you remember physics, any measuring device has its own error, and any algorithm has its own accuracy.

This joke is very significant in view of the fact that the operation of the sound card is also affected by the radiation of the equipment located nearby, up to the ultrasound emitted by the central processor during operation. In addition, it is worth adding distortions to the characteristics of the recorded / reproduced signal, which depend on the final device (microphone, pickup, speakers, headphones, etc.). Often, for marketing, manufacturers of various sound devices deliberately increase the possible frequency of the recorded / reproduced signal, from which a person who taught biology and physics at school raises a completely conscious question “why, if a person does not hear outside the range of 20-20 kHz?”. As they say, in every truth there is a grain of truth. Indeed, many manufacturers only on paper indicate better characteristics of their equipment. Nevertheless, if, nevertheless, the manufacturer really made a device that is capable of capturing / reproducing a signal in a slightly larger frequency range, it is worth thinking about buying this equipment at least for a while, but thinking about it.
The point is this. Everyone remembers perfectly well what the frequency response is, beautiful graphs with irregularities and other things. When picking up sound (we will consider only this option), the microphone distorts it accordingly, which is characterized by unevenness of its AF characteristic within the range that it “hears”.

Thus, having a microphone that is capable of picking up a signal within the standard range (20-20k), we will get distortion only in this range. As a rule, distortions follow a normal distribution (recall probability theory), with small inclusions of random errors. What will happen if, other things being equal, we expand the range of the recorded signal? If you follow the logic, then the “cap” (probability density graph) will stretch in the direction of increasing the range, thereby shifting the distortion beyond the audible range of interest to us.

In practice, it all depends on the hardware designer and should be checked very carefully. However, the fact remains.

If we return to our hardware, then, unfortunately, not everything is so rosy. Similar to the statements made by microphone and speaker manufacturers, the sound card manufacturer also often lies about the modes of operation of their devices. Sometimes for a particular sound card you can see that it works in 96k/24bit mode, although in reality it is still the same 48k/16bit. Here the case may be that within the driver, the sound can really be encoded with the specified parameters, although in reality the sound card (DAC-ADC) cannot give the necessary characteristics and simply discards the higher bits at the sampling depth and skips part of the frequencies at the sampling frequency. At one time, the simplest built-in sound cards very often sinned with this. And although, as we found out, such parameters as 40k / 10bit are quite enough for human hearing, this will not be enough for sound processing due to the introduced distortions in the sound processing process. That is, if an engineer or musician recorded sound using an average microphone or sound card, then in the future, using even the best programs and hardware, it will be very problematic to clean out all the noise and errors that were introduced during the recording stage. Fortunately, manufacturers of semi-professional or professional audio equipment do not sin like that.

The last problem is that the built-in sound cards simply do not have enough of the necessary connectors to connect the necessary devices. In fact, even a gentleman's set in the form of headphones and a pair of monitors will simply have nowhere to connect, let alone such frills as outputs with phantom power and separate controls for each of the channels and completely have to be forgotten.

Total: the first thing to determine for further selection of the type of sound card is what the master will do. It is likely that for rough processing, when there is no need to record in high quality or to simulate the "ears" of the end listener, a built-in or external, but relatively cheap sound card can be enough. It can also be useful for novice musicians, if they are not too lazy to deal with reducing delays in real-time processing. For masters who are engaged exclusively in offline processing, you should not bother with reducing delays and focus on devices that will actually give out the hertz and bits they are supposed to. To do this, it is not necessary to buy an overly expensive sound card; in the cheapest version, a more or less adequate "gaming" sound card may be suitable. BUT, I would like to draw your attention to the fact that the drivers for such sound cards try to improve the sound in a certain way, which is unacceptable, since for processing it is necessary to get the sound as clear and balanced as possible with a minimal inclusion of driver “improvement”.

However, if you, as a master, need a device that will meet the requirements for the quality of the recorded-playback signal, as well as for the speed of processing this signal, then you will either have to pay extra, having received a device of good quality, or choose 2 things you can sacrifice: high quality, low price, high speed.

Note. Ed.: If you are a musician and do not want to understand all the complexities of modern processing, order mixing and mastering in our studio, and we will do everything necessary for you to get high-quality material! ->

Evolution sometimes changes objects beyond recognition. Take a look at the same monkeys... Specifically, in the IT industry, this is happening so fast that often the old names of objects can no longer correspond to the essence. Is it possible to turn the tongue to call a kilogram colossus in an iron box with a bunch of handles a “card”? But there is no other way...

History reference

PC Speaker was the first. And, surprisingly, it still exists in all modern PCs. When you turn on the computer, you hear its non-melodious trills ...

The PC Speaker was really used to play music in old DOS toys and the simplest programs for writing music, mostly educational ones - the “tweeter” was and is able to reproduce elementary sounds of a given frequency. In the 80s, the PC Speaker was also used to play more complex music, but for a very short time.

In 1982, the Tandy sound card appeared. Rather, it is difficult to call this miracle a board: the contraption had a built-in speaker and reproduced sounds of a given frequency and volume through it.

Then there was Covox. This is a rather awkward device that connected to a computer via a printer (!) LPT port and reproduced sound using the first digital-to-analog converter in PC history. There are still quite a few guides on how to create a homemade Covox on the Web.

The first mass-produced computer sound card was Adlib. The secret of its success was that it used a chip from Yamaha designed for use in arcade machines. Remember PacMan? Heartbreaking squeaking sounds were carried over into the first DOS games, which made early PC gamers incredibly happy. All decent games since 1987 have started using the capabilities of the Adlib synthesizer. The board was capable of playing nine types of musical instruments and six drums, which at that time was the pinnacle of PC engineering.

Well, in 1989 Sound Blaster appeared. The new board was a frank clone of Adlib, but added support for digital recordings to the music synthesizer - Sound Blasters allowed you to play and record any sounds in 8-bit, 22kHz format. SB instantly became the de facto standard; all games and music programs supported Sound Blaster.

Then came the SB modifications: SB 2.0, SB Pro with stereo support, and the crown of creation - Sound Blaster 16. The last board became the object of cloning by various Asian manufacturers, due to which the claim of SoundBlaster compatibility became synonymous with high-end for the first half of the 90s sound board.

The 16-bit, 44kHz mode has become the multimedia standard - the so-called "CD-quality", being, however, only formally such. In fact, the sound quality of the boards of those years was so disgusting that there was no question of any CD quality.

One of the most significant revolutions in the world of sound cards was the Sound Blaster Live!. It marked the transition from the obsolete ISA bus to PCI, which provided a sea of ​​new possibilities: huge bandwidth, use of computer memory for storing samples, and much more. Sound Quality Live! was significantly higher than all its predecessors and remains acceptable to this day.

This is where the story ends and "our era" begins.

What are they needed for

Today sound cards are whole class devices, many of which serve much higher purposes than simply putting MP3s into five-dollar speakers. They are becoming centers of home cinemas, hi-fi systems, home and professional studios…

By the way, the boards were called boards actually because they were printed circuit board inserted into an ISA or PCI slot. Today, sound cards are also connected via USB, FireWire, PCMCIA ... In short, it's time to figure it out.

Classification of sound cards

Integrated sound cards

Where are they embedded? in motherboards. Inputs / outputs and codecs are soldered directly to the “mother”, and the central processor takes over all the computational processing. Such a sound solution is almost free, and therefore more than acceptable for unpretentious users - despite the disgusting sound quality. Do not try to use these devices to play MP3 files with a quality higher than 96kbps! You won't feel the difference. To avoid shock, under no circumstances stick a microphone into these boards - you will not recognize your voice.

In recent motherboards Ah, the built-in cards provide 5.1 output - that is, theoretically, even with the help of such a thing, you can build a "home theater" by connecting a set of 5.1 acoustics. But this option is for the most ardent haters of sound in modern cinema.

Price range: $0-4 (as a surcharge for motherboard with audio).

Multimedia sound cards

This is the most ancient category of boards: they were the first to appear and made the computer a means of playing and recording music. These cards, unlike the built-in ones, have their own sound processor, which processes sound, calculates three-dimensional sound effects used in games, mixes sound streams, etc., which allows you to offload the computer's central processor to process more important tasks.

As a rule, the sound quality in separate multimedia cards is really higher than that of the built-in ones. You can feel free to connect not the worst computer speakers and acoustic sets to them - although it is still very far from the Hi-Fi level. A home theater will sound more or less decent in combination with 5.1 acoustic sets made specifically for computer use.

Moreover, it is already somehow possible to record sound with the help of multimedia cards: it will be quite enough for the karaoke level. Yes, and simple programs for working with sound will function normally.

A few years ago, the market for multimedia boards was quite saturated, there were battles between manufacturers and their products... The brightest competitors were Aureal and Creative. The cards of these companies used different algorithms for working with 3D sound - each had its own fans.

With the advent of motherboards with built-in audio, conflicts resolved themselves: all manufacturers of cheap sound cards died. Only Creative remained afloat with its Sound Blaster Audigy/Audigy2 line, which is considered the top level in multimedia.

Price range: $15-80.

Semi-professional sound cards

Actually, these boards can be called differently - either semi-professional, or top-end multimedia ... But rather, these are still semi-professional boards. As a rule, they are produced by manufacturers professional equipment, focusing not on musicians, but on lovers of good sound. In other words - cards for audiophiles.

They differ from multimedia in the first place professional circuit solutions and high quality sound reproduction. At the same time, they, as a rule, do not use serious sound processors, and again, the central processor takes on the entire burden of processing 3D sound.

But for listening to music, these cards are ideal. With good acoustics, devoid of the shameful definition of “computer”, or decent headphones, you can get a sound close to an inexpensive Hi-Fi system. You will finally be able to distinguish between MP3 files and normal recordings ... And you will start to be afraid of low-quality "amps" like fire.

As a basis for cinema sound, such cards are also quite suitable. The sound will be clear, not distorted - in general, very decent.
As a rule, cards from manufacturers of professional equipment are equipped with drivers for professional programs for working with music and sound. So this board will be a great start for a novice musician. However, many of these cards are unsuitable for professional sound recording and in this regard are no better than their multimedia counterparts.

Price range: $80-200.

Professional sound cards

These cards are designed for professional musicians, arrangers, music producers... Anyone involved in the production and recording of music. In accordance with the tasks - and features: the highest quality of sound reproduction and recording, minimum distortion, maximum opportunities for working with professional software and connecting professional equipment.

Professional cards typically lack multimedia drivers and DirectX support, making many of them useless in games. They do not even support standard system volume controls - each channel is regulated in a special control panel that shows the signal level in decibels.

Inputs/outputs instead of the standard "minijack" are made either on RCA "tulips", or on "large jacks", or in the form of XLR connectors, brought out using special interface cables. Many cards have external blocks where all the connectors are output for easy connection. There is simply nowhere to plug in computer speakers... These cards are designed to connect professional studio acoustic monitors, mixing consoles, preamplifiers and other "serious" devices.

However, inexpensive professional cards can become the best choice for the true connoisseur of quality sound. Cards with RCA connectors are very convenient for connecting Hi-Fi equipment and will be a good sound source for a decent audio system. Cards with stereo jack outputs will allow you to connect expensive headphones without adapters and related distortions. However, only a few of the professional boards are suitable as the basis for a home theater, the number of outputs of which will allow you to connect all six speakers. After all, the main thing here is not the number of channels, but the sound quality of each of them.

Price range: $200-$...

External sound cards

This is a relatively recent trend in the world of sound cards, which has been developed only for Last year. External sound cards are connected to the computer using USB, USB 2.0 or FireWire interfaces.

What are these devices for?

First, moving the card out of the PC case makes it easy to solve some problems associated with interference and noise coming from other computer components and affecting the sound quality. Expensive board manufacturers solve these problems with quality components, special insulation, etc., which increases the cost of the device.

Secondly, barebone systems are gaining more and more popularity - small system units with a large number of interface connectors and, as a rule, no more than one PCI slot, which may have to be occupied by something more necessary for the user than a sound card.

Thirdly, a portable professional sound card that can be connected "on the fly" to any computer is a ready-made portable studio!

But there are also problems. The first devices released for USB did not gain due popularity due to the low bandwidth this interface. Restrictions were introduced on the quantity and quality of transmitted signals. However, there are still enough multimedia USB cards on the market that provide decent sound and a small number of input / output channels.

Today there is a real boom in professional cards connected via the FireWire bus: due to the high bandwidth of the interface, there are practically no problems with the number of channels and signal quality.

Price range: $60-$1000-...

What are they made of

Before moving on to an overview of specific devices, you should figure out what the sound cards themselves are actually made of. What affects sound quality? What are the fundamental differences between $10, $100 and $1000 cards?

You will find a detailed description of the sound card device in a separate publication in this issue of the magazine - we will focus on the most basic elements.

If the device is designed correctly and without obvious flaws, the most important element responsible for the sound quality will be the DAC - a digital-to-analog converter. This is a chip that performs a single task: to convert the input digital sound stream into an analog signal, which, after amplification, is fed to all sound-reproducing devices - headphones, speakers. The DAC is an essential element of any digital audio device: CD players, DVD players, flash players, MD players...

Cheap DACs treat the signal badly: the output stream is rich in distortion, has a low dynamic range, and is noisy; however, other unsuccessful circuit solutions on the board are often to blame for the noise. That is why the sound is not detailed, fuzzy, unnatural.
More serious converters use various systems filtering, correction, signal smoothing, interpolation and other things, which as a result favorably affects the sound quality.

Thus, only by seeing the converter installed on the board, you can make a preliminary verdict on the sound level of the device. For example, penny converters from Sigmatel are very common in multimedia and embedded cards, which sound very disgusting. The worst Crystal and Philips transducers do not please with sound either.

On more expensive boards, you can find AKM, Wolfson, Burr-Brown converters - their presence indicates a good potential of the product. Of course, each manufacturer has its own top-end and cheap chips - but these two brands have not yet been noticed in the production of outright consumer goods.

The line of Crystal converters is very wide: in addition to the mentioned poor ones, the company makes DACs for professional and super-expensive devices installed on cards priced over $1000.

Thus, our slogan is: "Tell me what DAC you have - and I will tell you who you are!". That is why, for example, all statements about the super-sound of the Creative Audigy card compared to its predecessor SB Live! refuted by studying the markings on the DA chip. The marking spoke of a Sigmatel converter that was by no means a top-end series. Again, they were greedy to install something better... But the Audigy2 has a rather serious chip from Crystal - hence the much better sound of the latest Creative card.

As for sound recording, everything is exactly the same here, only an ADC works instead of a DAC - an analog-to-digital converter.

It would be wrong to say that the DAC is the only link responsible for the sound quality. Conditions can be spoiled by cheap circuitry on the board, which introduces interference, noise and distortion into the analog signal, as well as drivers and the DSP processor of the board. For example, in most multimedia boards there is a flaw associated with the AC'97 standard, which sets the main audio sampling frequency to 48 kHz. At the same time, most of the sound material was recorded at a frequency of 44 kHz, since the most popular audio carrier of sound is still the CD. Therefore, when listening, any sound is converted by drivers or a DSP chip into a 48 kHz format, which introduces quite serious distortions into the sound.

I think that the theory is already enough - it's time to move on to specific instances.

Get down to business

So, on the cutting table there are four sound cards - four bright representatives of different classes, each with unique capabilities and features. Our task is to finally figure out what is happening in the modern computer audio market.

M-Audio Revolution 7.1

Outputs: 4 analog stereo outputs (minijack), 1 S/PDIF digital output (RCA, cinch)
Inputs: 1 stereo line, 1 mono microphone (minijack)


Support for 3D audio technologies: DirectSound 3D, EAX 1.0/2.0, Sensaura, 7.1 surround
Price: $115

M-Audio is a well-known name in professional audio and Revolution 7.1 is the manufacturer's first multimedia sound card. What is its difference from more serious products?

Basically, it's the little things. Firstly, all analog connectors are made on "mini-jacks", which makes it easier to connect computer speakers, inexpensive headsets and headphones. Secondly, the board is equipped with a microphone input, which happens either on cheap or very expensive devices. Thirdly, the card's drivers and capabilities are tailored to work with 3D sound in games: Sensaura and EAX technologies are supported. As for the 7.1 specification, it is rather a luxury so far, and there are almost no recordings (films) using the 7.1 surround sound scheme. However, when calculating effects in games, all 8 channels are used.

It is much more interesting to know what the little Revolution inherited from its three times expensive professional brothers.

Firstly, the card is based on the VIA Envy24HT sound chip, the latest modification of the Envy24 processor installed on huge number professional boards different manufacturers. The processor allows you to work with digital audio in formats up to 24bit / 192kHz and the number of output channels up to 8, which is what the board uses. Another consequence of the use of such a serious chip is the full-fledged operation of the board in professional audio applications - ASIO 2.0 drivers are included (they are used by software based on VST technology - Cubase, Samplitude, etc.). Due to this, high latency, which all multimedia cards are famous for, does not threaten Revolution.

And lastly, the availability of high-quality AKM converters. The card is based on two DACs: an inexpensive 6-channel AK4355 and an advanced stereo DAC AK4381. The first is used to output sound to surround channels, the second is in charge of the main stereo output. Thus, the sound quality of the main channel is higher than the rest; this means that the Revolution is unsuitable as a multi-channel output board.

ADC converter - AKM AK5380, also not top-end, but decent enough. You can record with Revolution - for example, digitize analog recordings, connect external players, etc.

Summary: Revolution is an excellent card for high-quality music listening and DVD viewing, with high sound quality and uncompromising capabilities for working with professional audio software.

Audiotrak Maya44 MKII

Outputs: 2 analog stereo outputs (1/4 Jack), 2 digital outputs S/PDIF: RCA, optical
Inputs: 2 stereo line (1/4 Jack), mic preamp
Playback: up to 24bit/96kHz
Playback: up to 24bit/96kHz

Price: $139

Audiotrak is a division of ESI, a well-known company in professional circles, which produces expensive audio interfaces, professional monitors, etc. Audiotrak is engaged in the production of budget professional and multimedia sound cards. Maya44 MKII is the top product of the company's professional line. The difference in price with M-Audio Revolution is minimal, but the capabilities and purpose of the boards are completely different.

So, Maya44 MKII is designed primarily for musicians. Accordingly, the board solves the following tasks: to reproduce and record audio with high quality, to work in professional recording software.

On the card, instead of minijacks, stereo TRS connectors are soldered - popularly called "big jacks". Usually, on professional devices, these connectors are monophonic - that is, one "hole" for each channel. Here, each connector is stereo. On the one hand, it is convenient - you can directly connect professional headphones without adapters to a minijack, on the other hand, you will have to connect, for example, an amplifier or active speakers with the help of an adapter.

The board is built on the same processor as the Revolution - Envy24HT, or rather, a special "stripped down" version with fewer output channels. All the advantages are in place: full-fledged work with professional software using ASIO 2.0, low latency. Sign of a professional card - in the Maya44 system, the MKII is seen as several devices, each of which is one of the inputs / outputs of the card. Those. you can send sound streams from different programs directly to different outputs. Another interesting feature is the DirectWire function, which allows you to connect any virtual inputs and outputs to each other at the software level - without any loss in signal quality.

For example, to record audio from WinAmp to a Cubase sequencer, you must connect the outputs of the WDM (standard Windows audio drivers) to an ASIO input. In this way, for example, you can burn WMA files that are forbidden for editing and copying without losing a bit of the quality of the original file.

The Maya44 MKII is equipped with not the most expensive Wolfson converters, which, nevertheless, give a very clear sound without distortion, which is inaccessible to multimedia sound cards. The card is more than suitable for entry level professional sound recording and playback.
Summary: Considering the price, the Audiotrak Maya44 MKII is best solution for the beginning musician.

M-Audio Firewire 410

Outputs: 8 analogue mono outputs (1/4 Jack), two headphone outputs (1/4 Jack), 2 digital outputs S/PDIF: RCA, optical
Inputs: 2 mono line (1/4 Jack), 2 mono mic, 2 digital S/PDIF: RCA, optical, MIDI 1x1
Playback: up to 24bit/192kHz
Playback: up to 24bit/96kHz
3D sound technology support: 7.1 surround
Price: $475

Another product from M-Audio - this time from a completely different sector and price category. Firewire 410 is, as the name implies, an external audio interface that connects to a computer using Firewire. We have already talked about the advantages of such a connection: the absence of interference from the filling system block PC, ease of switching (no need to climb to the back of the computer every time), as well as mobility, i.e. the ability to use the device as a portable studio with any computer nearby: PC, laptop, Mac.

The interface is designed with professional needs in mind, as it is aimed primarily at the pros. Here everything is already grown-up: analog connectors are monophonic, in the form of a “big jack” and microphone XLR. There are digital inputs and outputs of various types - coaxial, optical, as well as a MIDI interface for connecting external synthesizers, MIDI keyboards and other similar beasts. The most important thing is the presence of two microphone/instrument preamps that allow you to connect any professional microphones, unlike the vast majority of boards that lack this possibility. Very convenient and the presence of two headphone outputs: each - with its own level control. Some "ears" are taken by the sound engineer, the second - by the performer himself, and during the recording they simultaneously hear what they are doing. By the way, the presence of 8 analog outputs allows you to use Firewire 410 to build a 7.1 system.

As for the software part, only a professional will deal with Firewire 410 firewood on the go. The control panel provides wide opportunities for routing (redirecting) signals from any inputs to any outputs of the card, creating buses into which audio streams from various software are collected, etc. The interface has a special knob to which you can assign a variety of parameters: from adjusting the overall volume to controlling the sound level of an individual program.

And now - attention. The Firewire410 interface is built on the same DAC/ADC as its almost four times cheaper friend Revolution 7.1: the main stereo output is AKM AK4381, the other outputs are 6-channel AK4355, the input is ADC AKM AK5380. What does this mean - about the "general need" of Firewire 410 or about the seriousness of Revolution 7.1? More like the second one. However, the sound of the boards cannot be called the same: with the same converters, the measured parameters of Firewire 410 are somewhat better than those of the Revolution: probably due to better circuitry, no PC interference, professionally sharpened drivers, etc. The difference will be felt, however, only by the owner of high-class acoustics costing well over $500.

Summary: The Firewire410 is an ideal, if expensive, solution for a portable and serious home studio, with all the tools for a full-fledged professional recording.

Echo Indigo

Outputs: 1 analog stereo output (minijack), 1 headphone output (minijack)
Inputs: no
Playback: up to 24bit/96kHz
Playback: no
Support for 3D sound technologies: no
Price: $135

And finally - the most non-trivial product: a PCMCIA sound card, i.e. audio interface exclusively for laptops. The card is made for those who don't want to be content with the usually disgusting built-in audio of a regular laptop. In general, Echo Indigo is the first link in a whole line of PCMCIA boards, including Indigo DJ (has two independent outputs) and Indigo IO (one input, one output). Accordingly, “just” Indigo only allows you to output one channel of audio, the DJ version is designed for DJs using a laptop instead of turntables / CD players (two outputs will allow you to connect a laptop to a normal DJ console), Indigo IO is for those who need a high quality recording.

The Indigo series was created by Echo, another well-known company in professional circles, based on its most popular PCI-card Echo Mia ($250), which served as a standard in sound quality for its price range. The Indigo has the same converters and the same 24-bit Motorola DSP. At the same time, Indigo is significantly, almost twice, cheaper than its progenitor.

One of the features of the Echo cards is the presence of 8 virtual inputs - the system sees the Echo as 8 devices, each of which can be signaled independently. The signals are mixed in hardware using the board's DSP processor, due to which you can get high quality sound - hardware mixing is often better than software mixing.

Summary: Indigo is the most convenient and inexpensive solution to turn your laptop into a Hi-Fi player.

conclusions

For the most attentive readers, everything is already clear. The price range of motherboards with high-quality sound is very wide; acceptable solutions start at $100. Studio cards costing around $500 often use the same elements as several times cheaper budget solutions from the same manufacturers, giving buyers of inexpensive devices a serious sound. According to the same pattern, the top products of consumer goods manufacturers are not much different from their low-end products.

In any case, to catch the difference, you need high-quality speakers or headphones - we recommend that you turn to inexpensive Hi-Fi or budget professional monitor speakers, or just a good pair of headphones.

Your computer or laptop needs a sound card, also known as an audio card, to operate audio playback devices. Such devices are external, internal.

They are also distinguished by the type of connection: USB, PCI, PCI-E, FireWire, ExpressCard, PCMCIA. Buy a sound card for a computer - difficult task, requiring 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, editing sound played 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 you need a sound card

The sound card is needed for the correct, accurate and timely reproduction of the sounds requested by computer programs and operating system devices through speakers, headphones. Without it, a computer or laptop will not be able to send any sound signal to external playback modules, since it does not have another component with similar functions.

Device

The sound card of a computer consists of several related hardware systems responsible for the collection, production, and processing of 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 takes place in a digital signal processor (DSP): it plays certain notes, adjusts their tone, frequency. The power of the DSP and the total amount of available notes is called polyphony.

Types of sound cards

You can find audio cards in the market in a shock-resistant, waterproof case. This type is better suited for connecting an advanced audio system, launching powerful games. Separate boards and integrated audio cards are a more standard solution with average parameters. Cards are divided into three types according to the possibility of dismantling, location relative to the device:

  • integrated;
  • internal discrete;
  • external discrete.

The best sound cards

Choosing a sound card is fraught with difficulties. Such devices are multifunctional, so the set of characteristics for one audio card can be very different from any other. Many expensive modules should only be purchased on sale or at a discount, because their price may be too high. To understand which sound cards are suitable for a particular purpose, check out the pros, cons, features and parameters of the best models.

professional

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

In the following model, Motu standards ensure high-quality signal processing, it is equipped with an external unit, and the design is pleasing to the eye:

  • model name: Motu 624;
  • price: 60000 rubles;
  • features: thunderbolt connection, via usb ports, 2 XLR inputs;
  • pluses: simultaneous work with several multichannel systems;
  • cons: the need for additional power, it 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 rubles;
  • features: multi-channel audio output, 16-bit/48 kHz DAC, 8 analog audio outputs;
  • pluses: compact external card, low cost;
  • cons: ASIO 1.0.

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

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

PCI cards

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

  • model name: ASUS Xonar D1;
  • price: 5000 rubles;
  • Features: PCI interface, 24bit/192kHz DAC, 7.1 multi-channel audio;
  • pluses: optical S/PDIF output, support for EAX v.2, ASIO 2.0;
  • cons: periodically produces loud digital noise.

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

  • model name: Creative Audigy;
  • price: 3000 rubles;
  • characteristics: PCI interface, coaxial output, 1 mini-Jack connector;
  • pluses: alternative drivers expand the capabilities of the audio card;
  • cons: emits a loud bang when the device is turned off.

USB audio card

Portable audio cards can deliver great audio anywhere:

  • model name: Zoom UAC-2;
  • price: 14000 rubles;
  • features: external card, USB 3.0 interface, shockproof case, 24-bit/196 kHz DAC;
  • pros: quality / cost, necessary minimum for studio recording;
  • cons: the settings of the control panel buttons are not obvious, there are no symbols.

External computer modules should be not only convenient, but also of high quality. Line 6 POD gives you the ability to place your extended audio system anywhere:

  • model name: Line 6 POD studio UX2;
  • price: 16000 rubles;
  • Specifications: 24-bit/96 kHz, stereo audio outputs, 7.1 multi-channel audio;
  • pluses: the ability to connect many devices, excellent noise reduction;
  • cons: the price does not match the functionality, quality.

With optical output

Fiber optic cables provide unsurpassed protection against interference. Experience pure sound with Universal Audio audio cards:

  • model name: Universal Audio Apollo Twin SOLO Thunderbolt;
  • price: 40000 rubles;
  • characteristics: optical output S/PDIF, EAX v.2, ASIO 2.0;
  • pluses: clear multi-channel sound, excellent card for studio recording;
  • cons: a small number of outputs.

With ASUS, it has become even easier to purchase a high-quality audio card. An excellent combination of cost / quality and clear sound will help to appreciate any track:

  • model name: ASUS Strix Raid PRO;
  • price: 7000 rubles;
  • characteristics: PCI-E interface, optical output S/PDIF, ASIO 2.2, 8 channels;
  • pluses: remote control, the ability to connect headphones up to 600 ohms;
  • cons: The software conflicts with other sound drivers.

Sound card 7.1

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

  • model name: HAMA 7.1 surround USB;
  • price: 700 rubles;
  • features: external audio card, USB 2.0, stereo analog audio outputs;
  • pluses: ease of control, good amplifier;
  • cons: low frequency.

Multi-channel analog audio outputs make listening to your favorite music comfortable with any audio system:

  • model name: BEHRINGER U-PHORIA UM2;
  • price: 4000 rubles;
  • characteristics: USB interface, ASIO 1.0, 2 analog outputs;
  • pluses: perfect for rough recording of a vocal part;
  • cons: no separate headphone volume control.

Sound card 5.1

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

  • model name: Creative SB 5.1 VX;
  • price: 2000 rubles;
  • features: integrated 5.1 system sound card;
  • pluses: suitable for any computer, the card connects easily, 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 rubles;
  • Specifications: 6 outputs of multi-channel audio;
  • pluses: support for sound extensions of modern computers;
  • cons: the card is not suitable for a music lover due to its low bit depth.

audiophile

True music lovers will appreciate the perfect sound experience available with ASUS Sonar Essence audio cards:

  • model name: ASUS Sonar Essence STX II 7.1;
  • price: 18000 rubles;
  • characteristics: 8 outputs, incl. coaxial S/PDIF;
  • pluses: clear reproduction of vocals, instrumental music;
  • cons: no SSD hard drives create strong background noise.

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

  • model name: ASUS xonar Phoebus;
  • price: 10000 rubles;
  • characteristics: 2 analog channels, 2 jacks 3.5 mm;
  • pluses: all driver settings are on a special banner window;
  • cons: lack of technical support.

For headphones

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

  • model name: MOTU Audio Express;
  • price: 30000 rubles;
  • features: USB 2.0 interface, coaxial input / output, 2 headphone jacks;
  • pluses: strong body, clear playback through headphones;
  • cons: close location of external controls.

Tascam offers audio boards that help musicians work with excellent signal transmission:

  • model name: Tascam US366;
  • price: 10000 rubles;
  • features: USB 2.0, instrument output, phantom power.
  • pluses: analog outputs and jack give the perfect sound;
  • cons: unstable drivers.

For laptops

Laptop audio cards are gaining popularity. External modules will improve the sound:

  • model name: Creative X-FI Surround 5.1 Pro;
  • price: 5000 rubles;
  • features: USB 2.0 interface, Asio v.2.0, 5.1 multi-channel audio, 6 analog connectors;
  • pluses: headphone amplifier, stylish design;
  • cons: does not support Linux OS.

Sound quality on laptops has always been a problem. solve it with creative sound blaster:

  • model name: Creative sound blaster Omni Surround 5.1;
  • price: 9000 rubles;
  • characteristics: 24 bit/96 kHz, 6 audio outputs, connection via USB 2.0, optical S/PDIF output;
  • pluses: advanced options for optimizing the microphone, headphones;
  • cons: can produce digital noise when the load on the central processor increases.
  • price: 12000 rubles;
  • characteristics: interface USB 3.0, 24 bit/192 kHz, 2 x multi-channel outputs XLR, Jack, analog;
  • pluses: availability of all necessary connectors;
  • cons: registering in the driver support program can cause difficulties 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 rubles;
    • characteristics: external audio card, USB 3.0, 2 analog outputs, 16 bit/42 kHz;
    • pluses: perfectly improves the sound quality of a low-power device;
    • cons: lack of ASIO support.

    Creative offers cards that do not exceed 2000 rubles in value:

    • model name: Creative SB Play;
    • price: 1600 rubles;
    • specifications: USB 1.1, DAC 16 bit/48 kHz, 2 analog connectors;
    • pluses: small, convenient audio card, durability;
    • Cons: The output frequency is lower than most internal integrated boards.

    How to choose a sound card

    To find the right sound card for your laptop or computer, pay attention to the following criteria when choosing:

    1. Form Factor It is also a location type. External card is needed only in certain cases, and the internal one is not suitable for every device.
    2. Playback sampling rate. Audio file formats may have different requirements for the frequency of the synthesized wave. For a standard MP3 file, you need 44.1 kHz, and for a DVD format it is already 192 kHz.
    3. 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 near-perfect sound. It is suitable for lovers computer games in which the sound component plays an important role. Important parameters:

    1. Frame. Any external module is subject to potential danger. The shell must be made of shock-resistant material.
    2. 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 presence of a slot for it or the type of attachment to the motherboard, but there are other criteria:

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

    Video