Sound Cards

All computers that can play audio already have sound cards. However, not all PCs come equipped with sound cards that can produce the type of audio you want. If you use a computer as a home theater, music player, or gaming system, it is ideal to have the capability for 5.1 surround sound. 5.1 means there are five speakers and one subwoofer.

Sound cards send different audio signals to each of the five speakers, so the speakers all play a different portion of the overall sound. Rather than simply hearing the audio from a computer, a listener becomes immersed in whatever is playing. This intensifies the video gaming experience and enhances your enjoyment of music and movies.

Sound Card Features to Look for

If you plan on using a computer to record or play music, consider purchasing a sound card with MIDI. MIDI is a standard for connecting electronic musical instruments. Having MIDI is especially helpful to musicians who like to write and record their own songs. With the right software programs and a sound card with MIDI, it is possible for one musician to play five different instruments (one at a time) and then overlap the recordings together to make one song on the computer.

Other important sound card specifications include whether or not the card has a microphone plug, and the operating systems that can read the card. It is especially important to check this latter detail if you are using an older operating system. Some of the newer sound cards only work with newer operating systems. Here at Newegg, we have dozens of sound cards that can transform your computer into a state-of-the-art stereo system. Our electronics are sold at discounted prices, so you will find quality products at great values on our website.

Bestselling Sound Cards Reviews:

TIRTHANKAR C.

1/22/2025 1:31:30 PM

Creative Sound BlasterX AE-5 Plus SABRE32-class Hi-res 32-bit/384 kHz PCIe Gaming Sound Card and DAC with Dolby Digital and DTS, Xamp Discrete Headphone Bi-amp, Up to 122dB SNR, RGB Lighting System

“ Overall, the Creative Sound BlasterX AE-5 Plus is a top-tier sound card and DAC combo that offers a stellar audio experience. ”

Creative Sound BlasterX AE-5 Plus SABRE32-class Hi-res 32-bit/384 kHz PCIe Gaming Sound Card and DAC with Dolby Digital and DTS, Xamp Discrete Headphone Bi-amp, Up to 122dB SNR, RGB Lighting System

steven j.

12/2/2024 8:39:16 PM

Sound card

“ A lot of people say sound cards are not needed today because of the sound thats already on the motherboard but if you want superior sound then what comes on your motherboard it is a must at least I think so ”

Creative Sound Blaster Z SE Internal PCI-e Gaming Sound Card and DAC, 24-bit / 192 kHz, 116 dB SNR, ASIO, 600O Headphones Amp, Mic EQ, Discrete 5.1 / Virtual 7.1, Supports Dolby Digital Live, DTS

Leander

8/7/2024 10:44:51 AM

Great sound

“ Straight out of the package it's a good sound card clearly improving the onboard sound chips, and for the tweakers there are tons of options. ”

Creative Sound BlasterX AE-5 Plus SABRE32-class Hi-res 32-bit/384 kHz PCIe Gaming Sound Card and DAC with Dolby Digital and DTS, Xamp Discrete Headphone Bi-amp, Up to 122dB SNR, RGB Lighting System

Alex D.

2/28/2024 9:40:40 AM

Good sound card for the price

“ If you're looking for a good sound card for daily tasks and some gaming this is a great card for that ”

Creative Sound Blaster Audigy Fx V2 Upgradable Hi-res PCI-e Sound Card with 5.1 Discrete and Virtual Surround, Scout Mode, SmartComms Kit for PC

Ashley

1/7/2024 9:12:49 AM

5.1+2.1=7.1 Goodness

“ An excellent solution for a 7.1 sound card and using up the speakers that I have lying around. ”

Weastlinks PCIe 7.1CH Sound Card Stereo Surround Sound PCI-E Built-In 7.1 Channel Audio Audio System CM8828

Randy C.

11/24/2023 9:32:49 PM

huge improvement over the soundcard that was installed from Dell

“ This card was very easy to install and get running and made a huge improvement in the sound and versatility of my computer as a music player and is worth the money. ”

Creative Sound Blaster Audigy Fx V2 Upgradable Hi-res PCI-e Sound Card with 5.1 Discrete and Virtual Surround, Scout Mode, SmartComms Kit for PC

Bryan W.

8/15/2023 2:43:25 PM

Groovy sound card. MUCH better than any built in audio.

“ Great sounding card as usual from Creative. ”

Creative Sound BlasterX AE-5 Plus SABRE32-class Hi-res 32-bit/384 kHz PCIe Gaming Sound Card and DAC with Dolby Digital and DTS, Xamp Discrete Headphone Bi-amp, Up to 122dB SNR, RGB Lighting System

Tomas

3/15/2023 1:46:44 PM

Nice

“ This sound card has really expanded the sound quality of my Creative Pebble speakers that I have. ”

Creative Sound BlasterX AE-5 Plus SABRE32-class Hi-res 32-bit/384 kHz PCIe Gaming Sound Card and DAC with Dolby Digital and DTS, Xamp Discrete Headphone Bi-amp, Up to 122dB SNR, RGB Lighting System