Will I see a substantial upgrade with a new soundcard (Barracuda AC-1)?

[50]

Hello,

I just got some M-Audio BX5A's and really like them. Major upgrade from my Z-5500 I had before. Anyhow, I'm wondering if my 5 year old Razer Barracuda AC-1 is limiting the potential of these speakers. What would be a reasonable upgrade? Budget is <$100, but could be higher if need be. Thanks

BTW forgot to mention I will not be gaming, only music listening.

 

[Christobevii3]

That is a decent sound card. The parts aren't going to be upgraded much if you change it. You may gain more sound processing ability (eax) etc but not sound much different.

 

[alfa147x]

Get a DAC and go S/PDIF -> DAC -> speakers.

You MIGHT see a difference. The biggest change I saw when moving to an external DAC was the lack of noise. Which I assume is from all of the other things inside of a computer case.

Passive EMI Shield(electromagnetic interference shield): The card (Razer Barracuda AC-1) is geared to prevent electromagnetic interference from other PC components, especially high-powered video cards common in gaming systems.

... May not even see the disappearance of noise.


No need to upgrade soundcards.

If you want to get fancy. $750 worth of fancy you could get the Schiit Gungrin (Link) then go XLR to each speaker. lol