what is the best soundcard?

[Laynestaley]

I've been reading a lot of threads and it seems that the midiman audiophile 24/96 really is the best soundcard for homerecording. However, I asked around and the midiman costs about 300 Euros (I don't know how much this is in dollar) and that's to much for my tight budget (I've already bought a new computer, recording software and a new amp and now I'm practically broke).
Now I know that soundcards are important for recording, but isn't there a less expensive card that can also do the trick?
(BTW: is creative really that bad?)
Thanx

 

[chessrock]

I'm not quite clear on your question. Are you asking what the BEST sound card is, or are you asking what is the CHEAPEST? you seem to be contradicting yourself. Sorry to bust your chops, there, guy. Anyway, as far as the best sound cards go, the Lynx one and Lynx two are supposedly the best. Those run between $1K - $2K, though.

The M-audio cards are pretty close in quality, but they cost a lot less. So in fact m-audio probably ARE about the best bang-for-the-buck out there. If those are too much for you, then I'd recommend saving up a little more money before making a cheaper purchase that you will regret down the line.

 

[SirRiff]

I discussed this one...

Greetings,

I refer you to this thread in which i asked something like this. The audophile always gets great reviews for a budget card from all the sites i have seen. Creative cards are not true recording cards, so they will never be as good it seems.

SirRiff

 

[Evildick]

You could also check out the RME Hammerfall cards as I've heard they are pretty good also. If I were you, I would get a cheap SB Live card for the time being so that you can get used to your software. Don't spend more than 70 Euros on it. Save up for a couple of months when you have more money to get a better card like the audiophile. By then you should have a better idea of how many inputs you need, what bit-depth you will be recording at and the quality of the A/D to D/A you want. No need to rush.