2. pc-audio
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Help me build a fine PC sound system


I’m looking for current suggestions to a great sounding desktop audio outfit which is pc driven or based completely.
!
Currently I’m using a Creative labs $50 USB sound card, and an Altec Lansing 2.1 desktop speaker system $200..

It really isn’t bad, and loads of fun. It allows me to play back lots of files & CDs I probably would not play too often on my main stereo.

So… I'm looking for recommendations of USB sound cards and a 2.1 speaker setup. Prefferably with both mechanical and software vol control, which will noticeably improve upon the aforementioned gear..

Noticeably.

What are your picks for:

USB sound card
2.1 speakers
2.0 speakers
Subwoofer

…… that will sound better than my above listed stuff? Actually it’s OK, but playing a setup disc it is easy to perceive how many areas of the bandwidth simply aren’t being honestly reproduced… but that’s about the only way to really highlight it’s shortcomings. Otherwise.. it’s well, fun…. And inexpensive.

Mainly the focus is for PC but if it will work with Macs too, that's great!. If it can integrate into a preamp or receiver or DAC too, that would be very nice, but not an absolutely necessary option.

Remember, the idea is a stand alone very, very nice sounding PC sound system first! It should be capable too of replaying file types from 16/44 to 24/192.

Do try to make the rig as inexpensive as is possible, so some reasonable and thoughtful blend of value to performance should be the real guideline.

I’m thinking too, as full range as is possible and likely a sub needs be in the mix… but nothing nutso.

Over achieving and high value items, front and center!

This might be fun…. Wadaya think?

Many thanks!
blindjim
meiwan
399 posts
 
For good sound, you pretty much have to go with an outboard DAC to integrated amp to speakers (or powered speakers). For an all in one solution look at the Peachtree audio stuff. If your budget does not permit, something like the Grant Fidelity tube DAC ($250) is a good start.

Too many choices in integrated amps/speakers to begin to suggest...
sandstone
201 posts
 
Hi Jim,
So you don't want to relocate your office rig, and your specs seem to rule out all of the USB-DIF converters, DACs, etc, etc. OK, I'll bite...how about one of these?
The speakers and enclosures are based upon the original designs by Koss.

http://www.tivoliaudio.com/products/internet/networks-w-stereo-speaker-walnut-gold.html
soulbrass
246 posts
 
At work, I use a Toshiba Laptop w/ iTunes > USB > PS Audio DL III > Audioengine A5s and am very happy.

...add a preamp and powered subwoofer if needed.

Good luck!
blindjim OP
2,837 posts
 
Thanks so far... to everyone.

actually a 'stand alone' system is the aim. No iPod dock, no dedicated DAC, no dedicated int amp or receiver.

So active speakers, and a USB or fire wire sound card that is a step or two up from what I have now... it's nearly ... well, it's old IMO.

If the sound card has SPDIF out, fine. if not, that's fine too.

Self contained stand alone, high value, not high cost.

Some sort of arrangement for $< $400 or so.

I'm blessed to have plenty of junk around to integrate any of my desktops into... preamps, receivers, DAC, converters, but prefer to go with a pc rig that needs no other assistance.

If, this proposal by todays' standards IS NOT CAPABLE of showing a noticeable measure of performance as opposed to what I have now... well, just say that.

I figured $400 - $500 ought be plenty to spend on a desktop sound system... if not, do tell.

Thoughts?
arni
313 posts
 
This might fit your bill, USB in so no need for soundcard!
http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?spkrmoni&1311201925&/Quad-9-L--Active-Powered-Speak
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