Choosing the best external sound card: an overview of five models. External sound card for laptop

We often set tasks for it as for a full-fledged device. Fortunately, modern technology allows compact devices to work like their full-size counterparts. But, if processors and video cards in portable computers have long been at the level of full-sized desktops, then the sound often leaves much to be desired. By reading this article, you will learn how to choose the right laptop not only in terms of performance, but also in sound. I will tell you what parameters are responsible for good sound, what you should pay attention to. You will learn about the benefits of some technologies and the futility of others.

Before we start talking about specific laptops, I would like to provide you with a little theory. To make it easier for you to understand what it is about.

The first thing to master is what sound is. To simplify as much as possible, sound is mechanical waves. The easiest way to imagine sound is water waves, only in the air. We do not see them, we do not feel them, but we hear them. Sound waves, like waves on water, break against obstacles and lose their strength.
The main conclusion from my words is that the farther the source is from us, the worse it is heard. Put on some music in your bedroom and go to the kitchen, you won't hear it as well as you should.
Accordingly, translating the topic of sound into the plane of laptops, we can say that one of the important indicators in terms of sound quality is the location of the speakers themselves. If the speakers are hidden in the case, if they are somewhere on the bottom or somewhere else, you will not get a good sound.
Notebook speakers should be located on the top or side of the device. Only with this arrangement will you get the correct and high-quality sound of the device. This is the only way the sound will not be distorted.

Oh, what an interesting thing painted on top, right? This sound card... This means that we will talk about the initial "power" of the sound.
On the simple models Notebooks do not install sound cards. They are usually straight-wired and perform very mediocre. In devices with this equipment, you will not get any loud sound, no clarity of high frequencies, or deep bass. The sound, as well as the sound card, will be quite mediocre.

When choosing a laptop with good sound, you should pay attention to the presence of a separate sound card. Manufacturers love to praise their equipment, which means that such information will always be indicated on a specific model. A good sound card is the foundation of good sound. She is responsible for the quality of the reproduced sounds. It will give you the opportunity to hear both high frequencies and deep bass, while not distorting anything and conveying you the true sound of music.

A good "hardware" inside the device will give you the opportunity to hear how the guitarist played the wrong string or played the wrong note, you will hear the music as it is.

By analogy with sound cards, sound amplifiers and subwoofers can be built into a laptop. They serve the same role and enable you to enjoy the sound of your device.

When choosing a laptop with good sound, you should pay attention to the availability of additional equipment, such as: sound cards, subwoofers and sound amplifiers - they are fundamental to correct sound.

At the same time, you need to understand that each bells and whistles require energy, which means that the better the sound, the more energy it needs. Take care of a laptop with a good battery - if you don't want it to turn off halfway through the movie.

And one last tip regarding sound. If you are tired of the sound of an old laptop, then you don't have to buy a new one. You can save a lot by buying a portable subwoofer or portable sound card. These devices connect to your laptop and significantly improve the sound quality. At the same time, they have their own body and look very neat.

The only downside is that in addition to the laptop, you also have to carry an amplifier with you. And this is no longer so convenient and contradicts the very idea of portability.

Now that we have finished looking at the main correct characteristics of the models with rich sound, we can move on to the second part of the article, in which I will tell you which laptop models deserve attention.

ASUS Pro BU401L - will be the first model with which I want to start, I will not talk about the technical aspects of the model - we are not interested in them. This will give you precise sound characteristics.

I will deviate a little from the topic of sound and note that the laptop weighs some 1.64 kg, very nice figures. At the same time, the design and "flatness" of the device surprise no less.

Pleases absolutely correct location of the speakers - on the top panel.

It is worth noting that the asus company has been producing computer hardware in general and laptops in particular for a long time. At the same time, the company has solid experience in terms of sound. Consider the Asus N750JV model with a subwoofer and probably the best sound among laptops. Asus engineers did not pass by this model either, giving it an excellent sound, with such a thin case. The speakers do not wheeze at full power, and the portable device itself has special software to better customization sound. AudioWizard offers us a variety of modes to choose from: Music, Movies, Sound Recording, Games and Voice Enhancement.

ASUS N750JV is the previously mentioned multimedia notebook model. One of the best sound quality notebooks.
It is worth starting to list the advantages of the model with the fact that a portable subwoofer is already included in the kit, which can significantly enhance the sound quality. But there is nothing strange in this, since the model was originally created with a focus on multimedia quality.

One of the big benefits of N series laptops is the sound quality. ASUS N750JV is no exception and has an excellent sound subsystem. Traditionally, the laptop is certified by Bang & Olufsen, a Danish company specializing in the production of hi-end audio and video equipment.

SonicMaster Premium is a technology implemented by the specialists of the asus company at the software and physical levels, which increases the sound quality to exorbitant heights.
At the same time, the device has as many as 4 speakers, the volume of which is pleasantly surprising.
The Waves MAXXAudio software is already standardly included with the laptop - for more precise sound tuning for each ear.

Notebooks from hp deserve a separate recommendation. Their main advantage is full cooperation with BeatsAudio, the world leader in the field of audio technology. This means that in almost every model of this company you can get a decent sound.

MSI GX660 - the creation of MSI company pleasantly pleases with a pair of strong speakers and a built-in subwoofer. It's convenient and compact, while still giving you great sound.

Summing up, I would like to note that not all laptops were named here - there are too many of them to name all. But at the same time, you received the information that will help you choose the right laptop and not make mistakes. Do not forget to consider the price tag factor, not always the most expensive thing is the best.

All owners of musical instruments, as well as fans of laptops, sooner or later have a desire to expand the capabilities of their devices. In the case of laptops, everything is clear - the standard sound subsystem is not enough to implement high-quality and surround sound.

As for musicians - as a rule, they are interested in experimenting with music and the desire to connect, for example, an electric guitar to a computer to record their own compositions - is not a reason to buy an external sound system. PC owners, by the way, are also not always happy with the standard sound card with the popular Realtek codec, and want more from it. And if there is a dimensional video card in the system unit, there is nowhere to shove the "sound card".

Recently, this topic has become interesting to our readers, so we decided to choose the best external sound cards for different tasks, following the recommendations of our engineers from the test laboratory. Below in the material, we will present you some of the best devices in our opinion and tell you about each of them in detail.

Which external sound card should I choose?

Let's first define: for what tasks an external sound card is bought. If you need to process sound and do sound recording, you need to look for a solution in a professional class of devices, but for an organization speaker system for good surround sound, you don't have to chase expensive Pro models. Our review is dominated by affordable solutions, but there are also options for professional work with sound.

When making music in special programs it is important that your PC has at least 4GB of RAM and a sound card with ASIO driver support.

First Place: Creative Sound Blaster X7

An external sound card is ideal for gamers and moviegoers who want to fill the space around them with impressive sound. Regardless of which device you connect to it, 7.1 speakers or headphones, the sound will be powerful and clear, especially when used in conjunction with Creative E-MU XM7 speakers. Using this kit, you will accurately distinguish the sound of all musical instruments in a track by ear. An excellent all-in-one option for a gamer-music lover who is also not averse to feeling like a sound engineer.

The sound card received a 127 dB Burr-Brown PCM1794 DAC, provides HD audio output at 192 kHz / 24 bit - a true Hi-Fi level. At the same time, zvukovuha can simultaneously act as an external DAC (USB DAC), which works autonomously without the participation of a PC and is able to connect to smartphones via the Bluetooth protocol. Supports aptX encoding and decoding for minimal over-the-air audio loss.

Price: about 25,000 rubles

Second place: Behringer U-Phoria UMC204

One of the best sound cards in the budget segment, delivering good and detailed sound with dynamic bass. It is made in a durable metal case, supports ASIO, simultaneous connection of two microphones or musical instruments. However, it is worth considering one nuance: if you buy an external card exclusively for listening to music, then you should take into account that when you use it, the sound becomes so brighter that in some metal compositions it may lose its “weight”.

Despite the affordable cost, it belongs to a semi-professional solution, so it makes more sense to use it in studio mode, coupled with the appropriate software for recording and mixing sound. Note that each audio input is equipped with a preamplifier and phantom power (48 Volts), which is provided for working with condenser microphones. The audio resolution is decent 96 kHz / 24 bit.

Price: about 9000 rubles

Third place: Steinberg UR242

The strict design of the external sound card in a metal case gives it a stylish and classic look. The device is quite portable, so you can safely take it with you to field recordings. Among the connectors on board are two combo line inputs with phantom power, two conventional line inputs and a headphone output. Everything you need for most tasks.

Guitarists will appreciate the dspMixFx software mixer, DSP effects for sound processing, and the ability to play active pickups. And fans of "apple" products will be able to take advantage of the autonomous work with Apple tablets. High resolution audio 24 bit / 192 kHz adds to the impression. In addition, it comes with professional audio software: Cubase AI, Basic FX Suite and Cubasis LE.

Price: about 13,000 rubles

Fourth place: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2

Good sound card that lost a few points due to driver installation issues. In this regard, when buying, you will have to tinker a little: first, install the first version of drivers from the official website, and then install more recent ones in search of the most optimal ones for implementing high-quality sound.

But if everything goes well, you will be delighted with the quality of playback and sound recording. Onboard there are two mic preamps, a DAC with 96 kHz / 24-bit audio resolution, switches for linear and instrument modes, knobs for gain control for each channel, with LED indicators that indicate overload.

The build quality and hardware of the sound card is of a high standard and requires a relatively powerful PC or laptop to use it. However, for professional studio work, we do not recommend buying it. It is better to pay attention to more expensive analogs.

Price: about 9500 rubles

Fifth place: Native Instruments TRAKTOR AUDIO 6

For sound engineering and DJ tasks, a professional sound card is ideal TRAKTOR AUDIO 6 from Native Instruments. It is remarkable for its simplicity: no additional settings are required after connection. In addition, the device is enclosed in a robust metal case, which protects it from physical influences. The LED lighting here is not just a design element. From a practical point of view, this is a very smart move, allowing you to work with a sound card in poor lighting conditions.

TRAKTOR AUDIO 6 has good equipment and allows you to connect up to three stereo sources. In general, the card has three line outputs, a headphone jack, a USB interface for connecting to a PC, and a port for external power supply (the card can work autonomously). The Cirrus Logic CS4270 converters installed here provide support for audio resolutions up to 24-bit / 192 kHz, 105 dB dynamic range, 87 dB distortion + noise. Also included with the card is the advanced DJ software Traktor LE 2, designed for mixing ready-made tracks.

Price: about 20,000 rubles

If the sound path of the motherboard of your computer or laptop is built on high-quality components, it makes no sense to purchase a discrete card of a budget or even an average level. It will be almost impossible to feel the difference. In the same way as in the case of sound output to inexpensive speakers or headphones. There is an opinion that the cost of the used acoustics should be several times higher than the price of a sound card - then the set will be balanced.

So, you've decided to abandon the built-in sound card. Then we will immediately decide on the options:

Inexpensive embedded cards- a choice for the undemanding ear, if the sound of the "embedded" is completely obscene, or you want to connect multichannel acoustics to the motherboard, which has only a stereo output. Although taking into account the fact that now even budget systems allow you to connect at least 5.1 acoustics, such a need may be needed only on a computer, which it is high time to upgrade itself. The same can be said about cheap external sound cards- they remain the only option for laptops, but they are also interesting for PCs because they “collect” less noise on the analog path.
Do you like music not only to listen, but also to create? Regardless of genre preferences, you need a sound card with the supportASIO, and then we are already looking at our equipment - for power tools you will need high resistance (Hi-Z) input, studio condenser microphones need phantom power. If you work exclusively with VSTi, then you just need to have ASIO “on board”.
Want to connect your computer to an external DSP or AV receiver? Then choose cards with an exitS /PDIF- coaxial or optics, depending on how the input is implemented on the connected device.
Interesting multichannel audio in games? In this case, support by the EAX card will still be relevant, although it can already be considered leaving the scene (the last edition of the standard was released in 2005). At the same time, it would be more logical to choose from cards produced by Creative - whatever one may say, this is the company that created EAX.

There are also a number of nuances that need to be taken into account. For example, it is not the first year that Creative has been famous for its disgusting support - the same Audigy of the old series already on Windows 8 can work with problems due to the long-not-updated and initially raw drivers. Any card, both external and built-in, can work incorrectly due to software and hardware conflicts: for example, a loaded USB hub or motherboard bridge can lead to stuttering even with ASIO cards, especially if the driver is set to the maximum frequency sampling (and, accordingly, for the maximum amount of data transfer). So it is not always necessary to immediately blame the manufacturer for all mortal sins - you should also deal with your computer (not to mention the anecdotal cases when they forget to disable the built-in card in the BIOS).

Your computer or laptop requires a sound card, also called an audio card, to enable sound playback devices. Such devices are external, internal.

They are also distinguished by the type of connection: USB, PCI, PCI-E, FireWire, ExpressCard, PCMCIA. Buying a sound card for a computer is a difficult task that requires knowing the exact characteristics of the device into which it will be installed.

What is a sound card

An audio card is a sound card that is responsible for creating, converting, amplifying, editing sound reproduced by a personal computer, laptop or any other similar device. Maps are divided into several classes according to the nature of their location:

external;
internal;
internal with external module.

Why do you need a sound card

The sound card is needed for correct, accurate and timely reproduction of sounds requested by computer programs and operating system devices through speakers, headphones. Without it, the computer or laptop will not be able to send any sound signal to the external playback modules, since there is no other component with similar functions in it.

Device

A computer sound card consists of several associated hardware systems responsible for collecting, producing, processing audio data. The purpose of the two main audio systems is "audio capture" and work with music: its synthesis, reproduction. The memory of the device is accessed directly through a coaxial or optical cable. Sound is generated in a digital signal processor (DSP): it plays certain notes, adjusts their tone, frequency. The DSP power and the total amount of available notes is called polyphony.

Types of sound cards

You can find audio cards on the market in a shock-resistant, water-resistant case. This type is better suited for connecting an advanced audio system, running the most powerful games. Separate boards and integrated audio cards are a more standard solution with averaged parameters. Cards are divided into three types according to the possibility of dismantling, location relative to the device:

integrated;
internal discrete;
external discrete.

Best sound cards

The choice of a sound card is fraught with difficulties. Such devices are multifunctional, so the set of characteristics for one audio card can be strikingly different from any other. Many expensive modules should be purchased only at a sale or at a discount, because their price can be overpriced. To understand which sound cards are suitable for a specific purpose, check out the pros, cons, features and parameters of the best models.

Professional

This audio card is a class above other external devices on the market. She is a great choice for studio recording:

model name: Motu 8A;
price: 60,000 rubles;
characteristics: USB 3.0 connection, additional thunderbolt interface, Ethernet.
pluses: support for ASIO 2.0, control module on the case;
cons: high price, fragile shell.

In the next model, Motu standards ensure high-quality signal processing, it is equipped with an external unit, and the design is pleasing to the eye:

model name: Motu 624;
price: 60,000 rubles;
characteristics: thunderbolt connection, via usb ports, 2 XLR inputs;
pluses: simultaneous work with several multichannel systems;
cons: the need for additional food, it gets very hot.

Multichannel

The ST-Lab board will delight you with high-quality sound and the absence of digital noise for a long time:

model name: ST-Lab M360;
price: 1600 rubles;
characteristics: multi-channel audio output, DAC 16 bit / 48 kHz, 8 analog audio outputs;
pluses: compact external card, low cost;
cons: ASIO 1.0.

ASUS is known for its reliability, quality and durability. See for yourself with the Xonar DGX:

model name: ASUS Xonar DGX;
price: 3000 rubles;
characteristics: 7.1 sound, 8 audio outputs, PCI-E connection with a separate internal module;
pluses: clear sound, many connectors;
cons: large size.

PCI cards

Internal discrete and integrated boards are famous for excellent sound quality, high frequencies:

model name: ASUS Xonar D1;
price: 5000 rubles;
characteristics: PCI interface, DAC 24 bit / 192 kHz, multi-channel sound 7.1;
pluses: optical output S / PDIF, support for EAX v.2, ASIO 2.0;
cons: periodically produces loud digital noise.

Creative boards will allow you to enjoy high-quality sound in any multimedia format:

model name: Creative Audigy;
price: 3000 rubles;
characteristics: PCI interface, coaxial output, 1 mini-Jack;
pluses: alternative drivers expand the capabilities of the audio card;
cons: makes a loud bang when the device is turned off.

USB audio card

Portable audio cards can deliver great audio anywhere:

model name: Zoom UAC-2;
price: 14,000 rubles;
characteristics: external card, USB 3.0 interface, shockproof case, DAC 24 bit / 196 kHz;
pluses: quality / cost, the minimum required for a studio recording;
cons: the settings of the control panel buttons are not obvious, there are no designations.

External modules of a computer should be not only convenient, but also of high quality. Line 6 POD lets you place your extended audio system anywhere:

model name: Line 6 POD studio UX2;
price: 16,000 rubles;
characteristics: 24 bit / 96 kHz, stereo audio outputs, multi-channel sound 7.1;
pluses: the ability to connect multiple devices, excellent noise reduction;
cons: the price does not match functionality, quality.

With optical output

Fiber optic cables offer unrivaled protection against interference. Experience clear sound with Universal Audio audio cards:

model name: Universal Audio Apollo Twin SOLO Thunderbolt;
price: 40,000 rubles;
characteristics: optical output S / PDIF, EAX v.2, ASIO 2.0;
pluses: pure multichannel sound, excellent card for studio recording;
cons: a small number of outputs.

With ASUS it has become even easier to purchase a high-quality audio card. An excellent combination of cost / quality and clear sound will help you appreciate any track:

model name: ASUS Strix Raid PRO;
price: 7000 rubles;
characteristics: PCI-E interface, optical output S / PDIF, ASIO 2.2, 8 channels;
pluses: control panel, the ability to connect headphones up to 600 ohms;
cons: software conflicts with other sound drivers.

Sound card 7.1

If you find it difficult to find an inexpensive good audio board, portability, reliability, ergonomics and advanced control of this model will reveal all the possibilities of the audio system:

model name: HAMA 7.1 surround USB;
price: 700 rubles;
characteristics: external audio card, USB 2.0, stereo analog audio outputs;
pluses: ease of control, good amplifier;
cons: low frequency.

Multichannel analog audio outputs contribute to comfortable listening to your favorite music with any audio system:

model name: BEHRINGER U-PHORIA UM2;
price: 4000 rubles;
characteristics: USB interface, ASIO 1.0, 2 analog outputs;
pluses: perfect for rough recording of a vocal part;
cons: no separate headphone volume control.

Sound card 5.1

The common 5.1 format is suitable for both simple and advanced audio systems:

model name: Creative SB 5.1 VX;
price: 2000 rubles;
characteristics: integrated sound card of the 5.1 system;
pluses: suitable for any computer, the card is connected easily, quickly;
cons: the sound chips are poorly soldered, which causes audio delays, the microphone connection is unstable.

Creative SB Live! 5.1 is suitable for connecting professional sound systems and studio recording:

model name: Creative SB Live! 5.1;
price: 4000 rubles;
characteristics: 6 outputs of multichannel audio;
pluses: support for sound extensions of modern computers;
cons: the card is not suitable for a music lover due to its low bit depth.

Audiophile

True music lovers will appreciate the perfect sound experience with ASUS Sonar Essence audio cards:

model name: ASUS Sonar Essence STX II 7.1;
price: 18,000 rubles;
characteristics: 8 outputs, incl. coaxial S / PDIF;
pluses: clean reproduction of vocals, instrumental music;
Cons: Non-SSD hard drives generate strong background noise.

High-quality sound and unique driver tuning solutions will improve the performance of your audio system with ASUS xonar Phoebus:

model name: ASUS xonar Phoebus;
price: 10,000 rubles;
characteristics: 2 analog channels, 2 3.5 mm jacks;
pluses: all driver settings are on a special banner window;
cons: lack of technical support.

Headphone

Not all headphones can accurately transmit the audio signal. MOTU Audio Express Converters solve this problem:

model name: MOTU Audio Express;
price: 30,000 rubles;
characteristics: USB 2.0 interface, coaxial input / output, 2 headphone jacks;
pluses: sturdy body, clear playback through headphones;
cons: close arrangement of external controls.

Tascam offers audio cards that help musicians in their work due to excellent signal transmission:

model name: Tascam US366;
price: 10,000 rubles;
Features: USB 2.0, instrument output, phantom power.
pluses: analog outputs and jack give perfect sound;
cons: unstable drivers.

For laptops

Notebook audio cards are gaining popularity. External modules will improve the sound:

model name: Creative X-FI Surround 5.1 Pro;
price: 5000 rubles;
characteristics: USB 2.0 interface, Asio v.2.0, 5.1 multi-channel sound, 6 analog connectors;
pluses: headphone amplifier, stylish design;
cons: does not support Linux OS.

Sound quality on laptops has always been an issue. Solve it with Creative sound blaster:

model name: Creative sound blaster Omni Surround 5.1;
price: 9000 rubles;
characteristics: 24 bit / 96 kHz, 6 audio outputs, connection via USB 2.0, optical S / PDIF output;
pluses: advanced optimization options for the microphone, headphones;
cons: may produce digital noise when the load on the central processor increases.

For games

The Sound Blaster series board guarantees complete immersion in the sound world of PC games:

model name: Creative Sound Blaster X;
price: 5000 rubles;
characteristics: 24 bit / 192 kHz, PCI-E interface, 6 multichannel audio outputs, ASIO 2.0;
pluses: excellent software, compatible with many programs;
cons: when the sound is amplified, rattling appears, background noise.

Game acoustic module UR22 differs from analogs in the absence of distracting noise:

model name: Steinberg UR22;
price: 12,000 rubles;
characteristics: USB 3.0 interface, 24 bit / 192 kHz, 2 multichannel XLR, Jack, analog outputs;
pluses: availability of all necessary connectors;
cons: registering in the driver support program can cause confusion for the user.

Best budget sound card

There are inexpensive audio cards on sale that are not inferior in quality to expensive options:

model name: ASUS Xonar U3
price: 1400 rubles;
characteristics: external audio card, USB 3.0, 2 analog outputs, 16 bit / 42 kHz;
pluses: excellently improves the sound quality of a low-power device;
cons: lack of ASIO support.

Creative offers cards not exceeding 2,000 rubles at a cost:

model name: Creative SB Play;
price: 1600 rubles;
characteristics: USB 1.1, DAC 16 bit / 48 kHz, 2 analog connectors;
pluses: small, convenient audio card, durability;
Cons: Output frequency is lower than most internal integrated boards.

How to choose a sound card

To find a suitable audio card for a laptop or computer, pay attention to the following criteria when choosing:

Form Factor He is the type of location. External card is needed only in certain cases, and the internal one is not suitable for every device.
Playback sampling rate. Audio file formats may have different requirements for the frequency of the synthesized wave. For a standard MP3 file you need 44.1 kHz, and for a DVD format it is already 192 kHz.
Signal to noise level. The higher the value, the better the sound. Standard sound is 70 to 80 decibels, ideal is about 100 dB.

External

The discrete sound card is designed to connect to powerful professional audio systems for near-perfect sound. It is also suitable for fans of computer games in which the sound component plays an important role. Important parameters:

Frame. Any external module is subject to potential danger. The casing must be made of impact-resistant material.
Connectors and number of channels. The more types the better. Not all audio systems use standard jack, mini-jack, micro-jack outputs.

Internal

The choice of an internal audio card or board is based mainly on the presence of a slot for it or the type of attachment to the motherboard, but there are other criteria:

Connection type. The PCI slot was used in older motherboard models; most manufacturers have replaced it with PCI-Express. First, find out which connector is supported by your computer.
Mount type. Internal cards can be discrete and integrated. To install the latter, you may need the help of a computer wizard.

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