Should I upgrade my ISA sound card?

[Kilgore65]

I running an old Creative Labs AWE 64 ISA sound card. I haven't been disappointed in the sounds so far - I use it for gaming (flight sims), TV, and web surfing. I'm not an audiophile, but I realize that the ISA card is probably pretty outdated. What would be the benefits of upgrading to a newer card? Recommendations?

 

[madthumbs]

Only do it if you want 4 point or 5.1 surround sound for which you will need a different set of speakers as well. ISA sound cards are not outdated; the 32bit bus isn't needed for sound, it's just that ISA slots are being phased out on newer motherboards, so they have moved to PCI. Other cards may have more inputs for sound if you plan on getting more drives. My sister is using an old SB16 for gaming. If you plan to upgrade at least hear the difference for yourself before doing so. Waiting you may have more options soon, and time to figure out what is right for you.

 

[Oyeve]

The AWE 64 line was great. No need to update unless you want eax of 4.1 or 5.1. If you just want standard sound, the AWE 64 sounds just like every other card.

 

[tippmann]

If it works and your not having problems with it.. Keep it....

 

[bacillus]

I have to agree with tippmann on this matter!

 

[Supafreak]

i agree with tippman unless u want eax gaming or multi channel sound...then get a new card...i have the x-gamer and love it

 

[Rand]

A Live! Value is pretty cheap, why not buy it?
Nice boost over your AWE64.

 

[GregMal]

What's the old saying???
Don't fix it if it ain't broke!!!
And SoundBlaster Lives aren't error free either......
Just read the threads.....
Greg

 

[grygrx]

I just ditched my AWE64 as I found the sound to be really unclear when doing voice editing (I had never done voice editing before and it was never a problem). I switched to a Phillips Accoustic Edge and now the clarity is great (sounds great playing UT also)

Adam

 

[DaddyG]

I have an old Turtle Beach Wavetable sound card in one of my old systems. Just can't part with it, cost an arm and a leg at the time. Thisold system has a PCI-VideoCARD piggy backed with an ISA card also. More connectors for VideoIn/OUT than yoo can ever need. Course I've also got a bunch of old faithful ISA Trident Video cards.