Time For A New Soundcard?

My sound card is at least 4 years old. The sound coming from it sounds a bit tinny and distorted - especially with higher notes. It is across the board with games, mp3's, internet radio, etc. This is both with headphones and speakers. I do not know much about sound technology so I can't quite explain it. Something just does not sound right. It resembles the sound a blown speaker makes - but I know my speakers and headphones are fine.

Could I need a new soundcard? It seems odd that it could go bad. My current card is an SB16 Pro or something like that. Could someone reccomend a good, cheap card? My specs are in my sig.

Thanks.

 

it's possible that the sound card components are fatiguing due to old age, but imo, it's half that and half relative to other sound sources.

I'd definitely recommend spending a bit of money to get a better sound card. take a look at this: http://www.newegg.com/app/viewProductDesc.asp?description=29-120-103&depa=0 the quality is very good if not excellent. the quality beats the socks out of any creative labs card. as for gaming speed, you may experience a very slight increase if anything, but don't count on it being as fast as any game using eax. but otherwise, it is the absolute best (normative) all around card.

 

I have a few newer Sounblasters if you want one. Say $20 shipped, or trade for something.


Steve