Just got my X-FI Xtrememusic From Dell Need Install Help

[jrank001]

Well I just got my card from Dell. I have a newbie question.

What slot is best to install this in? I have a IX38 Quad GT.

Do I totaly disconnect my AC'97 plug from the mobo and forgo my connections on the front of my case and just use the card connections for ear phones and speakers?

Not sure what to do and want to do it right.

Thanks

[Stillhouse]

The best slot to put it in would be farthest from your video card, to minimize any chance of interference or IRQ conflict.

You'll have to disconnect the front panel jacks from your motherboard since you'll be disabling onboard sound. You can still use the front panel with the XMusic, you'd just need an adapter like:

http://www.performance-pcs.com/catalog/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=83&products_id=21700&zenid=0a8d78cdbc3ef28444982990dea9b21c

But I wouldn't recommend it, as sound quality wont be as good as coming straight from the jacks on the card.

If you need or want to have speakers and headphones connected at the same time, invest in a Plantronics .Audio PC Switch (http://www.provantage.com/plantronics-62085-01~7PLAC019.htm). Since it's not a splitter it doesn't degrade sound quality

[jrank001]

Thanks Stillhouse:

My card came with an adapter cable but both ends are female so I cant use it to connect my front jacks.

I'm hooking it up now. Will report back.