At the moment I would go with the Asus DX2/D2
Check them out at Google and Newegg.com
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=2010360057+50001315+1102608534&name=PCI
Unfortunately, it seems that the programmers of this page have not been smarth enough to display the date of the messages posted of this web site.
So, my answermight be a little outdated...
The best soundcard available, at least at the moment to post this answer, January 10th 2009, is by far the Asus Xonar Essence STX 7.1.
A comparison between the Asus Xonar Essence STX 7.1, the CreativeLabs Xfi Elite Pro and the Auzentech Prelude has been conducted and has proclaimed the Asus Xonar Essence STX the best of these 3 soundcards, at least, as far as music reproduction is concerned and as far as a stereo output is all you need.
In other words, if you truly are an accomplished audiophile are you're looking for the better music quality out of a soundcard from your PC, the Asus Xonar Essence STX is definitely what you're looking for.
If you're a passionnate PC games player, then, the Auzentech Prelude might be better for you.
Finally, if you're an avid music composer, then, the CreativeLabs Xfi Elite Pro has all the chances to be the best sourndcard for your needs, especially because of its front panel.
However, technically speaking no other soundcard on the market right now can reach the low noise level of -124db of the Asus Xonar Essence STX 7.1 as well as no other soundcard can go lower than the distortion levels of this soundcard while not forgetting that no other soundcard can match the audio frequency bandwith of 10hz to 96000hz at 192khz 24db of this soundcard as well.
M-Audio Audiophile USB Sound card gives the absolute best performance.
The Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi comes with great reviews.
RME cards or M-Audio Audiophile. RME is more expensive and if you have the money go for these, but audiophile is low latency too and will do the job.
If you are enthusiastic about high fidelity sound reproduction you are an Audiophile.
You have to use one or the other.It's much better to disable the onboard sound.
An audiophile computer is a computer intended to produce the highest quality of sound from the device, including speakers and processing. The quality of the sound from the device is important so that it sounds clear and is true to the music.
a person who is especially interested in high-fidelity sound reproduction.
Yes, aan audiophile would be a person who loves audio equipment.
In my opinion, the Creative Sound Blaster Xfi is the best gaming card on the market.
Research has shown that the word audiophile is somewhat explained in the actual word. Audio pertains to sound, and the definition of the word is a person who has a strong interest in high-fidelity or stereo sound reproduction. It appears the word was first used in 1951.
Auzentech makes a sound card that is perfect for home studios.
When choosing a graphic card, consider the type of tasks you'll be performing, such as gaming, graphic design, or video editing, and ensure the card has adequate performance, memory, and compatibility with your motherboard. For a sound card, think about your audio needs; if you're an audiophile or into music production, look for cards with high-quality DACs and multiple audio outputs. Additionally, check for compatibility with your operating system and whether you need additional features like surround sound support. Finally, read reviews and compare specifications to find the best fit for your budget and requirements.