Sound Card Help...

[sleepypost]

What sound card should I buy? I know this is a general question but it is importnat to me. You see, I plan to invest in a good sound card on a limited budget (150.00 or less). Other questions I have are:
Whats the difference between the Audigy 2 Platinum and the Audigy 2 and the Audigy X-Gamer? I looked at the specs, so basically im asking if there is a difference that would sway me towards one card or another.

I looked at the back of the Audigy 2 Platinum and it has aLOT more going on back there than the Audigy 2. Its got dials and buttons and stuff... I was wondering if that is important to any of you?

Also,I have been using a crappy 'ol AC '97 onboard sound unit with a good monster cable (optical) route to my receiver. The problem is that it doesn't seem to be able to split the signal into a true 5.1 signal. I run the THX tests and everything works except the subwoofer. What is up with that? I've fiddled with all the settings on my card. Its a six channel card and has 5.1 capabilities and so does my receiver. Any Suggestions??

Thanks

[LawyerRon]

From what I hear, the Turtle Beach Santa Cruz is a great card for the money. It's in the $60 range I believe.

You can see if it will fill your needs; the link is here: http://direct.mwave.com/mwave/ProdSOU-TUR.hmx?UID=&CID=&updepts=MM-SS&DNAME=%3Cb%3EMultimedia%2DSound+Cards%3C%2Fb%3E&back=ProdSOU-TUR.hmx?

& here: http://direct.mwave.com/mwave/doc/202754.html

[sleepypost]

thanks for the look, but im looking for something with at least an optical output.

[Nuclear Krusader]

Get an Audigy 2 and you will be very happy with it.

The difference between the common A2 and the A2 Platinum is the drive that you put in a 5.25" bay and it gives you a dial to control the volume, an extra FW port and jacks for devices.

Personally, I wouldn't spend the extra money on the Platinum but that is your choice.

[Redo40]

I agree with Nuke, the Audigy 2 will give you what you need without the extra expense.

[suitcase]

And with the rebate now its $96 from newegg with free shipping.