NEED A SOUND CARD & SPEAKERS!!! HELP

[skidooosl]

My last sound card (along with most other componets in my computer) died a horrible death.... long sad story :( I think it may have even taken out some of the channels on my Altec Lansing 5100's.... but anyway... now i need a new one... Previous card was a Soundblaster Live 5.1 MP3+... What would you recomend as a replacement? I have read quite a few posts where they say brands other than soundblaster line may be a better choice.... I would like to eventually hook these up to Logitech Z680's or the new modle that replaced them (5300 or something, cant remember), How much better would the Klipish 5.1 be than the logitech? would i be better off using optical or the analog? the main use will be for MP3's and Music Video's.

[zamac_man]

You probably want to get the audigy 2 zs. I think best buy will have it 50bux after rebate starting tommorow. The z680s are replaced by the z5500s. The z5500s are probably going to be around 50 cheaper.

edit. I am not sure about the 50 dollar audigy 2 zs. I must have dreamed of that or something

[Stocki]

I also think the soundblaster audigy 2 zs is a good choice.
I bought it for 51? (66US Dollar). But the bulk version.
In combination with a good sound system you can get very good results. (I choose the Teufel Concept E Magnum)
Other cards are also good but i think that creative is best....

[prw001]

If the main use for your computer is going to be for MP3's and music then IMHO I think buying 5.1 speakers are overkill. The Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 THX are really great speakers and would provide more than enough power and killer sound.

As a music lover i like to listen to music as it was recorded and intended to be played, which is through 2 speakers.

[westau]

if you play games though in addition to music you have to get 5.1 because games are just so much better when you can hear the things behind you that are actually behind you in the game.