Expert: Bobbert - 7/12/2010

Question
Hi Bobbert,
I want to have a PC set-up that will be optimal for music listening. I will purchase my "audiophile" speakers and amps. I just need your expert advice as to what computer specs must I have (like the best sound card for music, etc). Can you spec it out for me? I am not into recording. Just seeking excellent music from my PC. My budget will be around $1,000. Thank you very much.

Answer
Well, generally speaking there isn't going to be much difference between any two soundcards you can purchase for your computer in terms of sound quality - DtoA converters are only "so good" and even the least expensive soundcards (again, generally speaking) will feature near top of the line models. This is in sharp contrast to many "consumer electronics" or "audiophile" devices that can cost many hundreds of dollars and still not approach high end internals from the respective ASIC manufacturer (for example many $150-$350 "audiophile" stand-alone DtoAs do not feature the same quality components in terms of the actual DAC chip and opamps as many $50-$150 soundcards - this is based on things like SNR, THD+N, and IMD - not subjective comparison).

Depending upon what you'd like to connect your soundcard to (what kind of computer you have), and what you'd like to connect your computer to (external equipment, such as amplifiers) you have a few choices when it comes down to a soundcard, but generally speaking I would suggest anything from Creative, Auzen, or M-Audio with no hesitation.

If you have further questions, feel free to ask.

-bob