M-Audio Revolution 7.1 or Audigy 2?

[JYA]

Thinking buy a soundcard for my new computer. And find M-audio released a new 7.1 consumer card. Is there anyone know how is the sound quality of Revolution 7.1 compare to the Audigy 2?

I almost never play game, only watch DVD and play music.

Any idea?

Thanks,

Jeffy

 

[TripperJoe]

From what I read, the M-Audio is cheaper and the quality is better (spec-for-spec) than the Audigy2. The only consideration is the ports on the back of the card--make sure that all of the functionality is covered.

For $99 and for use with Music/DVD, I find the Revolution to be superior.

 

[HendrixFan]

If you are not gaming, then it is easily no contest, the Revolution will be the card fit for your needs.

I have M-Audio's Audiophile 2496 card, and plan on getting the Revolution 7.1 to replace my Audigy. The sound quality difference between the Audiophile (same DSP, not sure if the DAC is the same as the Revolution) is pretty clear on my modest Klipsch speakers, be it a wav file or an MP3. The Audigy seems to be best for gaming, but as you said that isnt a concern for you.

 

[TripperJoe]

HendrixFan:

There is neglible difference between the 2496 and Revolution in digital output, but I was surprised to find that the Revolution actually produces a cleaner analog output! Anyway, if that's of any interest to you.

JYA:

I didn't ask, but what kind of speaker setup are you using? The Revolution might be overkill. Depending on that, you may be able to get away with a cheaper card without noticing any loss of quality.

 

[RanDum72]

Any more opinions? I'm also considering the M-audio over at CompUSA for $99 to take over from the built-in stuff in one of my rigs. I already have the Audigy2 in my main rig so I pretty much know its pros/cons.

 

[Brian48]

You might want to check over at 3dsoundsurge's forum. There's several people over there who either already have this card or is very intimate with it. I would get the M-Audio only because I already have an Audigy2 and I would like to try something new. On the other hand, I really think music and DVD playback with the A2 is superb. Since gaming is not your priority, I don't think you'll miss any of these benefits offered by the A2.

Personally, if I were to get another card for just music and DVD playback, I'd consider an Acoustic/Seismic Edge or Fortissimo III (unless you REALLY NEED 24/96). The Santa Cruz is an excellent choice as well, but I think the Philips cards have better DVD playback and support is a big question mark since Voyetra has dropped all future driver development on this card.

 

[TGCid]

Brian pretty much covers it. Depends what kind of speakers you are using and what kind you are planning to upgrade to. You can save yourself lotta money by not going with the best. If money is no object, go for it.

 

[Biggs]

You might want to hold out a bit, at least, until the drivers mature, as I've heard some nasty things about the current revision.