I'm using a Hercules Muse XL right now with my KT7AR...didn't want to deal with the SBlive issue so..considering the luck I've had with their video cards...I gave it a shot. I don't really have much to compare to but...the Muse XL blew away the cheepo ATI Esoniq PCI that I'm using in my intel box.
Had no problems with the drivers, interference, playing analog/digital music, etc... I went a little on the cheap side with the Muse...Hercules appears to have some nicer cards but I'm not a real sound expert. Good luck with your final decision...keep us posted!!