How does nVidia's SoundStorm audio controller compare to SB Audigy?

[bullion416]

I have an Abit NF7-S motherboard with onboard nVidia SoundStorm sound controller. I am told it is a very good "sound card," but how does it compare to the SB Audigy 1 (the original one, not the new one). I am just trying to figure out if it is worth keeping my SB Audigy card or selling it and just using the on board sound (I do like the fact that it has an optical output built on to the motherboard).

 

[MDE]

It's about the same as the Audigy 1 in quality. Test out the SoundStorm and see if your Audigy is better. If you're satisfied, then sell the Audigy.

 

[dryKill]

I've heard both, and I noticed a definite difference between them. The Soundstorm was quieter than my Audigy, enough so to warrant me to keep my Audigy in my system and disable the Soundstorm. The Audigy simply sounds better overall, also.

If I had never heard an Audigy though...

 

[will889]

If you use real soundstorm, that means, connect to the digital interface, then you will need appopriaye digital speakers to use it. Logitech Z-680's are good, but with those, you still have to get the RCA converter jack (radio shack). Creative digital series has it aleady (speakers). If you use analog out with that Abit, your only going to hear the ALC650 (AC97) codec. Thtat's why you see so many users of soundstorm boards get a PCI sound card.

 

[beatle]

Originally posted by: Hoot
Logitech Z-680's are good, but with those, you still have to get the RCA converter jack (radio shack).

What do you mean? The Z680s take 3 different kinds of input: RCA, analog minijack, and toslink. The Soundstorm on my NF7-S has a toslink out. No need for a converter, just a toslink cable.

 

[Vette73]

Soundstorm by a mile for me. I also have the NF7-S

 

[Corporate Thug]

i like soundstorm better than audigy 1

 

[3sixes]

Ive never had a audigy, so I cant compare.
I will say that in my computer environment, the nvidia apu (aka soundstorm) sounds just fine to me.
And without knowing how it compares to the latest soundcards, I dont feel as though im missing anything.
All my games, mp3's, tv and radio tuner all sound wonderful.

 

[Skitzer]

Originally posted by: shady06
i like soundstorm better than audigy 1

I agree. I have an NF7-S 2.0 also and the onboard sound is great!