New Soundcard

[Axes]

I currently have an onboard Realtek ALC650 audio CODEC which sometimes has problems with game audio so I've been thinking about getting a new soundcard. I mainly play games with my computer but I also listen to music (mostly MP3's). I currently have Logitech Z-640 (5.1) speakers but I've been thinking about replacing them with some hifi headphones.

So what would be a good soundcard mainly for gaming? I've been doing a bit researching and one soundcard keeps popping up: Creative Audigy 2 ZS. Is this a good card when it comes to gaming?

Btw. does anybody know when Creative X-Fi will be available?

EDIT: I forgot to mention that I want a soundcard with good drivers.

 

[CrimsonCutie]

I'll be interested in this thread as well.. i am building my system and plan to go with the Audigy 2 ZS Platium... but hearing opinions and reviews may change that, or re-enforce the choice.

 

[suicidalpigeon]

audigy 2 zs will be most of the answer, dunno when x-fi is released.

 

[Axes]

More answers plz!

 

[ChicagoPCGuy]

Originally posted by: Axes
More answers plz!

If you want potentially endless driver issues, then please go ahead and buy the Audigy POS. I hate Creative cards, and thought they finally got their crap together with the Audigy2 series, but they are still up to their old tricks--crap drivers.

So, what to do? If you overbuild your system slightly in regards to video and CPU to not lose some frames, the VIA Envy24HT or HT-S series are superb. I mean awesome sound. I currently have a Chaintech AV-710 and am very happy with it. $25 and better sound than any Audigy. Not to mention totally trouble free drivers. They use about 10% CPU cycles in games, compared to the 20 to 30% for the onboard AC97 type sound, so it is not that serious of a frame rate hit, but does not get down to the 4% of the Audigy2.

For something that is more gaming oriented AND has equally awesome sound, then the Bluegears HDA 7.1 X-Mystique is probably one of the best sound cards on the planet. Here is the link: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16829127001