Any person who owns a computer or laptop has at least once used it to listen to music, watch a movie or talk with family via Skype or Viber. This feature has become an integral part of the life of any computer user, but he does not even know how it works. So, we'll talk about the sound card, which is responsible for these processes and capabilities, further. You will find out why a sound card is needed and what it does and how it reproduces sound.
An audio card is a chipset or expansion board for creating sound that can be played through headphones, speakers, or loudspeakers, and for recording it with a microphone.
Principle of operation
Typically, audio cards use a digital-to-analog converter to convert audio signals from digital to analog. They are output to any acoustic and sound-reproducing devices, be it speakers, headphones, etc. Modern advanced units include not one sound chip, but several, which is done to ensure the highest possible data speed and perform several functions at the same time.
Types of cards
There are two types of audio cards - integrated and discrete. External ones are connected via FileWire or USB. Internal ones when assembling a computer by attaching expansion slots inside the system unit.
The main disadvantage of embedded devices is a huge risk with poor-quality PC power, that is, power surges and failure of the power supply. External ones are more practical, which is explained by external volume controls. Moreover, this type of unit can work with both laptop computer as well as with a laptop or netbook.
In the case of an integrated card, its functions are performed by a processor that processes signals and converts sound. A discrete card has a personal sound processor, and some models even have their own memory.
So why do you need an external sound card if there is a built-in one? It's simple, with its help you can achieve the highest quality and purest sound, as well as access a number of important settings.
Where is she?
Often, a sound device is included in an expansion slot, connected via an external port, or integrated into the motherboard. Concerning last version, this makes the assembly much cheaper and faster than an expansion board with an imperceptible loss in sound reproduction quality for the user. Some devices are needed only for audio professionals or for use in the event of a breakdown of the integrated one.
The unit is installed on a modern motherboard in PCI and PCIe slots. A standard PC card has an interface that can be accessed from the rear panel, where there are various input and output ports, as well as on the sides and top of the case, depending on the individual design of the PC.
For computers upgraded at the replacement level hard drive or increase random access memory, you can use a discrete audio device that connects via a standard USB port.
Software
Usually, the audio card comes with proprietary software on a special disk, or it can be downloaded from the manufacturer's official website. However, do not worry about this, since modern operating systems in automatic mode detect and load drivers of any components, including sound cards.
Moreover, such software enables each user to do the maximum fine tuning and use whole line tools for editing, recording, etc.
Sound features
Dolby Digital and DTS Digital Surround are surround sound standards used in the DVD format. If the PC is equipped with an audio card that supports those same standards, then the sound is reproduced without any distortion and noise, creating the effect of presence.
To date, the standards for sound devices for the highest quality reproduction of music and sounds are incredibly diverse. One of them EAX and its improved version EAX ADVANCED HD guarantee excellent sound quality, which is achieved through the use of modern effects technologies.
Analog 3.5mm connectors
Almost all audio cards have a range of ports for connecting microphones, headphones, speakers, and other accessories. But there are devices that have more ports for output and input, designed for advanced users and their tasks.
Among the most common audio connectors are:
- Pink - microphone audio output.
- Blue is linear.
- Green - output for headphones or speakers.
- Orange - for subwoofer or center channel.
- Black is for surround sound.
- Gray is for the side speakers.
Also worth mentioning is the MIDI game port - this is a 15-pin connector designed to connect additional devices.
Summing up
We have carefully analyzed this topic and now you know exactly what a sound card is for and what advantages it gives us, and we, in turn, can say with confidence that the capabilities and functions of the speakers, the sound card, and the entire system as a whole, directly affect the sound quality.
Most motherboards are equipped with built-in audio boards, they have special chips, and ports are output to absolutely any place, it depends solely on the wishes of the user, design and technical capabilities devices. However, you can use third-party sound cards and external audio devices, buy and install them separately.
Just keep in mind that the potential of integrated devices is quite enough for users who are not fans of strong and powerful sound reproduction. Therefore, whether an external sound card is needed is up to you, based on your own needs and wishes.
Hello friends! Today we will reflect on whether a sound card is needed when assembling a computer. This refers to a discrete device, the purchase of which can result in a decent amount.
On the disadvantages of integrated sound cards
Many users, when assembling a PC, do not even think about the fact that a discrete sound system may be required. Still: this device is almost always integrated into the motherboard, and it’s not clear what anyone wants to overpay for, right?
Unfortunately, such a "shareware" solution will not always satisfy the user's needs. Why is this happening? Zvukovuhi, built into the motherboard for a PC or laptop, have a number of disadvantages that you should be aware of.
Firstly To reduce the cost of the device, engineers are trying to make it as simple as possible. It is not always possible to achieve a balance between price and quality, as is the case with any components. main feature integrated sound cards in that they lack their own processor, and the task of sound processing falls on the CPU.
This includes channel mixing, switching, and processing of the audio stream, which are also often handled in software, using the audio driver. Naturally, software is always inferior to "stone".
Of the hardware components, the DAC and ADC, operational amplifiers with piping and a controller for data exchange with the south bridge were left. The disadvantages of this solution are obvious: the load on the central processor increases.
Despite the fact that the “stone” easily copes with most streaming tasks, situations of its full load are possible.
This is especially true for games: the detailing of 3D objects can "gobble up" all the resources of the computer, as a result of which there is a desynchronization of the video sequence and the accompanying sound, a short-term absence of sound or "stuttering". 
This often happens if, on not the very powerful computer simultaneously run a resource-demanding game and an audio player.
Secondly, in internal audio, the analog part of the audio path almost always has very mediocre characteristics, which is due to the use of cheap components. All these elements are mounted directly on the board, which means that they are not protected in any way from interference with high-frequency interference that inevitably occurs during computer operation.
The third disadvantage, not so obvious - the limitations of the sound system in terms of connecting external devices. Most often, such a card has only three slots: line and microphone inputs, as well as a stereo output for headphones or speakers.
In addition, they are "sharpened" to connect budget devices, which are most often used by most users.
If we talk about headphones, then the focus is on low-power models with an impedance of up to 32 ohms. High-impedance headphones (from 100 and above) will no longer have enough power from the sound card, so the sound will be very quiet and distortion of the amplitude-frequency characteristic is possible.
The microphone amplifier of such a board is designed for the use of multimedia microphones and headsets. To realize the full potential, even a semi-professional dynamic microphone, alas, will not work.
However, this does not mean at all that the built-in sound cards are no good: they do an excellent job with the target tasks. To play streaming radio, watch a movie, organize a conference or video call, use voice chat in multiplayer games, their settings are usually sufficient.
If the computer faces special tasks, you will need an external board.
What is important to consider before buying a device
The use of a more advanced system requires all tasks, one way or another related to semi-professional sound processing - composing and recording music, vocals, multi-track sound recording, editing, digitizing recordings from analog media. Most of these tasks require ASIO drivers to be installed on the computer. 
To record vocals or a musical instrument, an amplifier is required, which is not always available in the built-in sound card. It's all about the vocals: a voice message or a podcast with a normal voice volume, you can record it on any zvukovuhu.
Also, in the absence of an amplifier, digitized recordings are usually of disgusting quality, although in this case a lot depends on the source. It should also be taken into account that the built-in sound cards are almost never equipped with the MIDI interface, which is necessary for connecting many instruments.
Separately, I want to mention streamers and letsplayers who specialize in games. In the first case, the load on the computer increases: in addition to the fact that the game itself is running, the video sequence and sound must be broadcast to a specialized resource. And in good quality, as their audience is very demanding in this regard.
When recording the gameplay and further processing for the purpose of publishing on video hosting, another unpleasant surprise may lie in wait: the game worked without lags, but, for example, BandiCam or Fraps recorded the process with “stuttering”.
Dancing with a tambourine and tinkering with the settings of the video grabber and the game itself are usually useless: the reason is the insufficient power of the sound card, which no longer draws sound recording without delays. 
But even if you are not a streamer or let's player, but just want to assemble a powerful gaming computer, having a good discrete sound card will not be superfluous.
Also noteworthy are gentlemen music lovers and other audiophiles with expensive high-quality stereo systems. In order for the sound to be worthy, an appropriate sound will be required. Alas, the sound quality is the concept is subjective and cannot be measured.
In this case, many other factors should be taken into account: the size of the room, its shape, the location of the stereo system, etc., as well as the noise emitted by the computer itself. It is possible that in this case, you will have to take care, including its reduction.
Author's opinion
Today, the sound card market has undergone a clear division into devices aimed at professional use in sound recording and music creation and multimedia sound cards used, among other things, in gaming PCs.
When choosing, you should take into account the features of the device: the presence of ports for a USB microphone, for 7.1 headphones, output power, if there is a receiver, and much more. But even having bought a relatively inexpensive device costing from 1,000 rubles, when you upgrade your computer, you can already feel the difference.
If you agree with me on this issue and intend to purchase a sound card, I advise you to read the publication about it. Articles about being on a computer may also be useful.
Where is the best place to buy? You can find the necessary accessories in this popular online store. By the way, I highly recommend it. Thank you for your attention, friends, and see you next time. I would be grateful to everyone who shares this post on social networks.
home computer a long time ago from workstation turned 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 digital signal to analog, outputting it to headphones, speakers, etc. Today, all modern motherboards are equipped with an integrated sound card, which is capable of providing quite tolerable sound quality. cons this decision 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 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:
- Location type. There are integrated, internal, external.
- Connection method. Integrated cards - not removable, soldered directly to the motherboard. Internal models connect to system board via PCI or PCI-Express slots. External, connect to PC via USB port or via high speed interface
Tip: when choosing inexpensive external model, the best connection would be to use high speed port USB 3.0 If your PC does not have one, then you can purchase an expansion card that connects to the PCI slot.
- 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).
- Appointment. Sound modules can be divided into multimedia, gaming, professional.
External Sound Card
External audio cards are a small device that 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 PCI slot, the number of which is limited in the PC.
Today, there are two FireWire standards: IEEE 1394, throughput which is 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 relatively low speed data transmission. 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, which is a full-fledged recording studio.
- Built-in USB mixer.
- Specially designed software with reverb plugin.
Equipment: TRS line inputs 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.
More and more people are writing music, doing voiceovers, doing production and post-production at home. And here you can not do without.
First, why do you need a sound card?
The task of any sound card is to convert digital data into an analog signal that can be output to a playback source, as well as convert an analog signal to digital data for recording. The DAC and ADC (digital-to-analog and analog-to-digital converters) are responsible for this.None of the computers have built-in 6mm jack or xlr connectors. The sound card, in turn, makes it possible to connect and record any musical electric instrument, microphone, and so on. Many models are also equipped with midi and other connectors, which allows you to connect other devices through them.
Why the built-in sound card is not enough
Working with the built-in map, you will find several features:- it is possible to record only one signal source at a time;
- signal delay, failures, recording of background noise and pickups are possible (this is especially true in system blocks with noisy coolers).
An external card will help offload the computer's processor.
When working with a sound card built into a computer, a significant amount of resources is consumed not only by the processor, but also by RAM. An external sound card takes over the work with incoming and outgoing sound, reduces latency during recording, allows you to record and mix multiple sound sources at once.
Photo: James Baldwin
Reduce latency and increase recording quality on external sound cards helps sound driver ASIO.
ASIO (audio stream input/output) is a streaming data input and output driver developed by Steinberg. ASIO has become widespread, and most external sound cards use this data transfer protocol. When transmitting an audio stream, the device provides high fidelity and low levels of audio latency. ASIO allows you to receive or play sound directly through your sound card, avoiding your computer's sound subsystem.
Main characteristics of external sound cards
They may differ in connection method. The most common is USB. Mac sound cards can be connected via thunderbolt/type-C connectors. There are also firewire sound cards - high speed data transfer via this bus allows you to work comfortably, but since computers are equipped with this connector less and less, manufacturers have practically ceased to produce sound card models with this connection method. In the secondary market, you can still find interesting devices with a firewire connector, but before buying, you should be puzzled by the search desired adapter to connect the card to a computer.
Cards may differ in DAC/ADC bit depth. The market average is 24 bit. The higher the score, the better the recording can be.
The higher the DAC frequency, the better the quality of the recording will be. The audio CD (44.1 kHz) standard has long been marketable.
The signal-to-noise ratio is important:
- in maps entry level it is equal to 75-90 dB;
- in good medium and high cards price category- 90-100 dB;
- in PRO-level cards for recording studios - 100-114 dB.
Cards can vary in the number and type of built-in connectors.
If you plan to use, then you need to pay attention to models that have not only an xlr input, but also a built-in preamp with phantom power. To record musical instruments (such as guitars), you will need a device that has a Hi-Z instrument input. In some sound cards, it is combined with others and can be activated by pressing a button. If you plan to connect midi equipment, then sound cards that have midi in/out are your choice.
It is also worth immediately deciding in what conditions to record. In addition to technical important parameters pay attention to the weight and size of the sound card. This is reflected in the ease of transportation. There can be no one opinion here - rely on your personal feelings. But remember - more mobile devices are equipped with fewer inputs and outputs and simpler DAC / ADC.
Let's go to choice
Since USB is the most common and universal connection method (all computers have this connector or the ability to connect it), we will consider these sound cards.In operation, they have the only, albeit very conditional, drawback - the data transfer rate. Usually it is not higher than 480 Mbps, since the connection is via USB 2.0. Most likely, you are unlikely to exceed this threshold. And if you know in advance that you need other capacities, then you should consider sound cards connected via a firewire or thunderbolt / type-C connector, - right choice interface directly depends on the tasks that you set.
Lexicon alpha
Entry-level external sound card that has all the necessary inputs and outputs for recording and supports recording - 24-bit/48kHz. For beginners or not very demanding users, this is a good and practical option. Important - Lexicon Alpha does not work in operating system macOS X El Capitan and later as Apple and Lexicon have ended support for the device.
PRESONUS AudioBox iOne\iTwo
An entry-level audio interface that can work not only with computers, but also with mobile devices on iOS. The iOne has one instrument and one mic input, while the iTwo has two combo inputs. The interfaces have an internal analog mixer that allows zero latency monitoring and control of the recorded audio. One of the important advantages of the device is its compact size.
Photo: Behringer
The card is quite versatile in operation, has a low cost. Equipped with phantom power, two independent outputs and proprietary preamps. Of the minuses - not the most convenient response when adjusting the volume, and under heavy loads, the card may need to be restarted.
Onyx Blackjack
Photo: Mackie
A card from a series of the company's flagship products. Visually, it looks more like a Mackie sound control panel, which attracts the buyer. Everything inside is also very interesting - high-class DAC / ADC converters, di-box, phantom power and a proprietary recording monitoring system with virtually no latency.
Focusrite Scarlett solo/2i2/2i4 2nd gen
Photo: Focusrite
Focusrite's Scarlett series sound cards are among the most popular on the market. All thanks to the sound quality, ease of operation, memorable design. Musicians often use it for live performances as well. High quality is achieved thanks to proprietary Focusrite mic preamps. The card has a durable case and is easy to take with you and record anywhere.
Models of the Scarlett series differ in size and number of inputs and outputs. Focusrite offers ready-to-use recording kits based on these sound cards. The kit includes headphones, a microphone and a connection cable.
UA-55 Quad Capture
Photo: Roland
Excellent Roland VS Preamps, also found on premium devices. Pleased with the presence of a DSP processor that controls the compressor and preamp of each channel. The card has a built-in di-box: when you press the Ground lift button, it removes unnecessary background from the incoming signal.
The compact and reliable aluminum case puts a confident end to the issue of quality. Most users this device they simply cannot single out its significant shortcomings - perhaps they really do not exist. It is rightfully one of best cards for home recording.
Steinberg UR22 MK2
Photo: Steinberg
The fruit of cooperation between Steinberg and Yamaha. Supports 24bit/192kHz recording, phantom power, two XLR/TRS inputs, two outputs, Midi In/Midi Out ports. The metal body inspires confidence, and Cubase AI, included in the package, will help you get started right away.
Above, we reviewed the most popular models that receive a lot of positive feedback and consistently delight users with their quality. But, if you have not yet found the device that would meet your requirements, we also recommend that you pay attention to the following devices:
- Alesis iO2 Express;
- ESI MAYA44 Xte;
- M-Audio M-Track Plus II;
- MiNiSTUDIO Personal US-32;
- Yamaha Audiogram 6;
- M-Audio M-Track 2x2M;
- Tascam US-2×2;
- iConnectivity iConnectAudio2+;
- Native Instruments Komplete Audio 6;
- AKAI PRO EIE Pro;
- Arturia AudioFuse;
- Apogee Duet 2;
- MOTU 4pre;
- Avid Mbox 3;
- Apogee Duet 2;
- Roland Studio Capture UA-1610;
- Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII DUO.
Cover: PRESONUS AudioBox iTwo / PRESONUS