External sound card vs new motherboard

[Guest Stevie_K]

Long story short, the sound part of my motherboard is fried.

 

I'm not that technically familiar with the inner workings of computers, and motherboards in particular. The sound ports (audio & mic etc.) died a few months ago.

Since then I've been using a tiny SoundBlaster usb stick sound card with standard audio and microphone outputs.

The problem is that the sound quality basically sucks. Bass becomes distorted and high notes sometimes come out muddy.

 

I'm considering now to buy a proper external usb sound card (for sound production), or buy a new motherboard.

 

I would probably feel better getting an external sound card since the motherboard works just fine apart from the sound (and it has an i7 processor).

 

Have any of you got any experience in this field? Can I keep patching up my problems or should I start over clean with a new motherboard?

 

 

[Sonic 296]

I would just install an add-on PCI-e or PCI soundcard as a replacement for the failed on-board sound. The replacement card should have the necessary pin headers to connect up front panel audio and mic inputs.

[Guest Stevie_K]

Never thought of that! These even come pretty cheap. I'm definitely going to go with this solution. Thanks.

 

Edit:

 

I've settled on a Creative Sound Blaster Audigy FX 5.1 PCIe Sound Card.

Edited November 27, 2015 by Stevie_K

[Sonic 296]

Its cheaper than replacing the entire motherboard. Quicker and easier to install as well. Before installing the addon card, you may have to disable the onboard sound via your BIOS though.

[Guest Stevie_K]

I just plugged it in. No software installations and no problems. Sound is crisp and clear.