6 Best Audiophile Soundcards [Reviewed & Listed 2024]

Ordinary PC users might not require soundcards, but audiophiles and gamers seek the best soundcards for soothing their ears. And why not?

Because sound does matter to a musician or sound engineer. And to shoot the enemy, gamers need at least decent sound to some extent along with the immersive visuals. Anyway, from the extensive product research, testing, and market evaluation, we picked Creative Sound Blaster Z SE as the best audiophile soundcard available.

But we’ve chosen the 6 best soundcards among a whole lot, based on the PCIe or USB connection type, and listed in this post so you can decide better and get your preferred one. Let’s begin!

6 Best Soundcards for PC to Amp Up the Audio

Selecting a soundcard is a tough decision because that selection must fulfill your requirements. However, you won’t need to go through that hassle because I have picked and enlisted the best soundcards for desktops and laptops.

So, without further ado, let’s jump into the review zone.

Here are the best-selected soundcards for PC to boost sound quality:

1. Editor’s Choice: Creative Sound Blaster Z SE

SNR (Signal-to-Noise-Ratio): 116 dB.
Max Playback Resolution: 24bit / 192kHz.
Processor: Sound Core3D^TM.
Surround Sound support: 5.1 Discrete surround for speakers and 7.1 virtual for headphones.
Port: Supports ASIO with five gold-plated ports.
Mic EQ Presets: 11 presets through software.

Why We Picked It

We picked and enlisted this sound card for high fidelity and crystal clear sound quality, and the ASIO feature forces us to put it at the top of the list.

Moreover, if you’re using a pro-studio-grade headphone that supports 600Ω, this card will handle that like a pro. We tested its Dolby Digital Live and DTS Connect and were blown away by the theater-like sound quality.

It can output 116 dB SNR, which is 35.4 times your regular default audio. And it can deliver output with a surprising 24-bit / 192 kHz. As per our trial with this, its 11 EQ presets are top-notch, which were missing in the previous Sound Blaster Z card.

We found that this card’s SBX gaming sound profiles are so cool that they satisfied our ears while gaming. We have selected the SBX gaming sound profiles for hot-titled games such as Overwatch, Fortnite, Apex Legend, and PUBG. All SBX profiles were highly tuned so that we didn’t need to manually tweak anything.

Who It’s For

This is the best card if you’re a pure hardcore gamer and need crystal clear sounds to hear out all the enemies’ footsteps. Not only gamers but also sound designers can get the best out of it as it supports studio-grade headphones up to 600Ω.

What We Liked Most

We truly loved the ASIO feature of this marvelous soundcard, which, I believe, is the best feature offered by this card. Plus, all the EQ presets with SBX gaming sound profile make the game sounds more realistic.

Moreover, this card delivers ear-satisfactory surround sounds while playing games with the help of its DTS Connect & DOLBY Digital Live encoding feature.

What We Didn’t Like

Besides all the vibing characteristics, we didn’t like the annoying red light of this card.

Verdict

Sound Blaster Z SE is the perfect sound card for its high SNR and output bit rate. This card offers ASIO and other supreme sound features like SBX gaming sound profiles for hot-titled games. Its Sound Core3D processor is capable enough to deliver pristine sound quality. And all these factors make Sound Blaster Z SE the best audiophile soundcard of our choice.

2. Best for Gaming: Creative Sound BlasterX AE-5 Plus Pure Edition

SNR (Signal-to-Noise-Ratio): 122 dB.
Max Playback Resolution: 32-bit / 384 kHz.
Processor: Sound Core3D^TM.
DAC: ESS SABRE³²Ultra
Surround Sound support: 5.1 Discrete surround for speakers and 7.1 virtual for headphones.
Headphone Amp: Xamp Discrete Headphone Bi-amplifier.

Why We Picked It

During our research, we found that ESS SABRE³²Ultra DAC is the ultimate weapon of Soundblaster X AE-5 Plus. This powerful DAC amplifies the sound that will rock the world for sure.

We also recorded sounds with this device because it has an ASIO feature, and it’s okay. For content creators, it’s a bonus.

This sound card has the magical power to turn any normal headphones into a powerful ones. That’s why the Soundblaster X AE-5 Plus turns our $40 headphone into a $400 one. Thanks to its Xamp discrete Bi-amplifier for headphones.

Moreover, our test result finds that it does output 32-bit / 384 kHz with 122 dB SNR. Like the Creative Sound Blaster Z SE, it has the same Sound Core3D processor.

While testing this, we really got blown away by the RGB lighting feature of it, which is a bit rare for a sound card. It’ll give your battle station a solid look. Furthermore, I was really amazed by the sound quality when I plugged the HyperX Cloud II into the soundcard.

We could hear the enemy’s footsteps while gaming after turning on the scout mode. So thumbs up to Soundblaster for adding this. Comparing it with the Sound BlasterX AE-5, we discovered that AE-5 lacks the surrounding sound technology.

Who It’s For

This soundcard is clearly made for gamers, and that RGB lighting effect justifies it. Plus, audiophile people can work on sounds with this powerful sound card. And the blast sound justifies the naming.

What We Liked Most

From our game-centric mind, we really liked the Aurora RGB lighting effect, which is a bonus feature. It uses Dolby Digital Live / DTS technology to create an immersive and theatrical vibe. And the ASIO feature really comes in handy whenever we want to record.

What We Didn’t Like

Keeping all the positive aspects aside, sometimes software issues keep the volume at 100% even after a reboot.

Verdict

Creative Sound BlasterX AE-5 Plus is a powerful sound card that comes with the same processor as Creative Sound Blaster Z SE. It can output really high bit rate and SNR for the strong DAC. Besides all the 3.5 connectivity, it also has a TOSLINK Optical-out. And thus made our

This card earned the best gaming sound card title for all these features.

3. Runner-Up: ASUS Xonar SE

SNR (Signal-to-Noise-Ratio): 116 dB.
Max Playback Resolution: 24-bit / 192 kHz.
Processor: Cmedia 6620A.
D-A & A-D Converter: Realtek S1220A
Surround Sound support: 5.1 Discrete surround.
Headphone Output: 2Vrms (5.65Vp-p)

Why We Picked It

According to our test, this card stands along all the high-grade Creative Soundblaster cards. While saving your wallet, this card amplifies sound like a pro-grade card. All the BOOM! BOOM! Forced us to bang our heads. Well, that’s the power of its Realtek ALC1220X codec.

While listening, ASUS Xonar SE playback sounds at 24-bit / 192 kHz with a singal-to-noise-ratio of 116 dB. Furthermore, its 300Ω headphone sound amplifier makes our normal headphones sound like premium ones.

During our test, we couldn’t hear any noise or distortion because this card could output sound without any distortion due to its Hyper Grounding technology. I believe that tech does a pretty job at insulating sound. With four 3.5mm audio ports and a S/PDIF port, we did connect multiple devices.

As per the experiment, it came to the limelight that Asus Xonar AE did well in price-to-performance ratio and its high SNR. While comparing it to the previous Xonar AE, it surpasses the SNR with 6 dB.

Who It’s For

This card is a great option for those who need a bang-for-budget deal and own a small case. Don’t question its capability due to the look because the processor and codec can amplify sound like a sonic boom.

What We Liked Most

We really liked this sound card’s minimalistic look and high efficiency. This card is a true example of simplicity is the best. And the high-res audio quality blew our minds with distortion-free crystal clear sound.

What We Didn’t Like

Apart from this card’s great aspects, one thing really upset us. And that is lackings of ASIO support.

Verdict

Simple looking, low bracket, and high amplified sound are all you’ll get from this card. And this sound card comes at a decent price. So, it’s definitely a bang for the buck deal to grab. Due to all these features, this card earned the runner-up title from us.

4. Best Feature Packed: Asus Strix Raid DLX

SNR (Signal-to-Noise-Ratio): 124 dB.
Max Playback Resolution: 24-bit/192 kHz.
Processor: Cmedia 6632AX
D-A & A-D Converter: ESS SABRE9016 & Cirrus Logic CS5381.
Surround Sound support: 7.1 speaker level balancing.
Headphone Output: 2Vrms(5.65Vp-p)

Why We Picked It

The Asus Strix series is the behemoth in the gaming industry. All the Strix series are top in class, and the same goes for the Strix Raid DLX sound card. The card looks premium to us, and the performance was extraordinary during the test.

We are amazed that the Raid DLX gets an owl-like design with a glowing orange light.

Strix Raid DLX is a pro-grade sound card with premium built quality. We tested out the raid mode button on the controller while gaming and that came in handy. Because we didn’t need to pause the game to turn on the app’s gaming mode, that was a game-changing feature!

While testing this card, the Sonic Studio snatched my attention because this app has all the necessary features. You can tweak the EQ and create a custom equalizer from there. The Sonic Radar visualizes the footsteps, gunshots, and even call-outs.

And the Powerful LME49600 headphone audio amplifier shakes our ear drum with bass-boosted sound quality while using headphones. Moreover, this card is better than the Asus Strix Raid Pro due to its high SNR.

Who it’s for

Strix Raid DLX is the perfect sound card for game-centric people. With the controller, the user can turn on Raid Mode anytime without pausing the game. Plus, the Sonic Studio and Sonic Radar are game-changing apps for studio-grade sound customization and visual sound detection.

What We Liked Most

We found that the look of the card, the controller, and the amplified sound quality gained our attention. The powerful processor and strong audio encoder can blow away anyone’s mind.

What We Didn’t Like

As per our market research, for a soundcard like this, the price is a bit high. And that’s the main downside of this card.

Verdict

Asus Strix Raid DLX card 116dB signal-to-noise ratio will amp up your gaming experience. Moreover, the integrated headphone amplifier will deliver up to 600ohm, which is truly mind-blowing. For all of these top-tier features, this card holds the best feature-packed sound card title.

5. Best External: Creative Sound BlasterX G6 Hi-Res

SNR (Signal-to-Noise-Ratio): 130dB.
Max Playback Resolution: 32-bit/384kHz.
Audio Chipset:  SB-Axx1
Surround Sound support: Virtual 5.1 & 7.1 Surround sound with DOLBY Digital.
Supported Devices: PS4, XBOX ONE, SWITCH, PC
Headphone Amp: Xamp Discrete Headphone Bi-amp

Why We Picked It

This is the most compact and simplest yet powerful external sound card for PC and laptop we have ever seen. It connects to the PC via a USB connector, and it has a controller in the front to balance the audio. We tested that, and it worked pretty fine.

Creative Sound BlasterX G6 supports multiple devices, so we picked it as the best external sound card. Plus, its signal-to-noise ratio is 130 dB which is high. We connected this USB sound card with PS4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, and PC. The result was superb!

This sound card outputs virtual 7.1 surround with a 32-bit / 384 kHz during testing. Its DAC performance is solid, and the Xamp discrete headphone amplifier provides best-in-class headphone audio.

We also checked the early G5 model, and turns out it lacks the Xamp headphone amplifier and GameVoice Mix feature, whereas the G6 has these. And the G6 model can output at 600ohm to the headphone.

Who It’s For

We believe that the external sound card is definitely for those who need a single sound card for multiple devices. Because this card supports most devices, you can game with it. Plus, the 7.1 surround sound can give an immersive theatre-like feel.

What We Liked Most

The compact design, SBX sound mode, and super versatile supportability snatched our attention to picking this external USB sound card. Moreover, you can’t deny its high fidelity and crystal-clear audio. And this device comes with upgraded Sound Blaster Command software.

What We Didn’t Like

It can’t isolate the signal properly, and that’s the weakness of this USB soundcard, according to our test.

Verdict

Creative Sound BlasterX G6 is the perfect sound card that comes in handy if you have multiple gaming devices. Just connect the device to it and amplify the sound quality. For its overall performance, this sound card earned the best external sound card award.

6. Best Plug & Play: Creative Sound Blaster Play! 4

SNR (Signal-to-Noise-Ratio): 110dB.
Max Playback Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz.
Audio Technology:  BlasterX Acoustic Engine
Supported Devices: PS4, PS5, NINTENDO SWITCH, PC, Mac, Android, iPad, Tablets.

Why We Picked It

Compatibility is the main reason that we selected this USB sound card. It’s a compact package and comes with a noise-canceling feature. And it’s the simplest sound card yet powerful that exists.

On one side, there is a type C port, and on the other side, you’ll find a 3.5mm audio port. This card has a small central body with two dedicated buttons. One is for muting & unmuting the mic, and the other one is for EQ.

As per our test, the EQ button turns on the Dynamic Boost with a solid white light above the button. And flash a solid blue when you turn on the Bass Boost EQ. However, the previous Creative Sound Blaster Play! 3 doesn’t have the EQ and Mute buttons. Also, have less SNR compared to the 4 model.

Who It’s For

This USB sound card is definitely for those who like simple things, and this card is the simplest sound card you can buy right now. Plus, who work in a noisy environment, this card will cancel out the noise brilliantly.

What We Liked Most

We definitely liked the compact design, and this USB type-C-based dongle-like card offers EQ presets & a Mute button, and a noise-canceling feature. Plus, this Hi-res USB DAC delivers crystal-clear while our team was on a conference call.

Thanks to the SmartComms Kit app & CrystalVoice technology!

What We Didn’t Like

Apart from all the positive aspects, our trial on this card found that it is not as powerful as the other external USB sound card.

Verdict

This Sound card is the best plug-n-play USB DAC with a Hi-res feature you can buy right now. That’s why we honored this USB external card with the Best Plug & Play award.

Honorable Mention: FiiO K5 Pro

Boy o Boy! This is one of the most simplified-looking desktop DAC & amplifier we have ever tested. The unique fine-textured all-aluminum body managed to lock our eyes on it. And the next-gen high-performing DAC AK4493 satisfied our ears and soul with distortion-free and crystal-clear audio.

According to our R&D team, its USB decoding chip XMOS XUF208 can handle the decoding process efficiently. This external USB DAC can handle coaxial and optical inputs up to 192kHz.

Moreover, the XMOS USB decoder chip & AK4493 DAC did take us to a new height of the sound mountain.

The Fiio K5 Pro has a tactile toggle switch to input selection & gain control. We toggled the GAIN between three levels — low, medium, and high. And it does change things pretty well. We switched input lines after connecting multiple lines to it using the INPUT toggle switch — SPDIF IN, LINE-IN, or USB DAC.

The line switching was buttery smooth and super fast.

And the full metal oversized volume knob will let you adjust the sound with ease. And there is an RGB light that surrounds the volume knob and changes colors depending on the current sample rate.

How We Chose the Best Audiophile Soundcard

It was a tough decision to select the best audiophile soundcard based on some category. However, sound cards are mainly used by audiophile people and true gamers who need crystal-clear sound to feel the game. And keeping those users in mind, we selected the best soundcard so far.

Here are the factors we have considered to create the list:

Sound Quality

Considering the sound quality, we will definitely go for the Creative Sound BlasterX AE-5 Plus because of its max playback resolution of 32-bit / 384 kHz and 122 dB SNR. Plus, it has the premium grade Sound Core3D processor.

Speaking of high-sound quality, Creative Sound BlasterX G6 also takes place in this category, but this one resides in the external sound card zone. It has the same playback resolution of 32-bit/384kHz and higher 130dB.

Price

Creative Sound Blaster Z SE is the perfect internal sound card for the budget segment. It’ll cost you around $100, but you’ll get the best amplified sound quality. That’s why we chose this internal sound card for audiophiles and gamers.

And if you want to get the best and money is not a problem, we’ll definitely recommend the Creative Sound BlasterX G6, and it’ll cost you around $120 or less. This one is the best according to price to performance ratio. And it’s an external one, so you can use it with other devices.

Supportability

We will recommend you Creative Sound Blaster Play! 4 due to its portability. This soundcard/DAC comes in a dongle shape and requires no external power. Just plug and play!

It’s an updated version of the Creative Sound Blaster Play! 3 and comes with two buttons on the front side. One is for muting/unmuting the mic, and the other one is for turning on EQ. Plus, its noise-canceling feature makes it feature-packed too.

Perhaps, this USB soundcard supports tons of devices such as PC, macOS, Nintendo Switch,  PS4, PS4, Android, and so on.

FAQs

What are the best soundcards for listening to music in 2023?

According to the users and based on their reviews, the best soundcards are Creative Sound BlasterX AE-5 Plus, ASUS. XONAR SE, Creative Sound Blaster Z SE, Creative Sound BlasterX G6, ASUS Strix RAID DLX.

What is the best low-profile yet powerful PCIe sound card?

ASUS Xonar SE Gaming is the perfect card for those people who own a small case due to its low bracket. And this minimalistic-looking PCIe sound card is capable enough to fit its name in the best sound card list.

What is the difference between soundcards and DAC?

Soundcards use a CODEC chip to decode and encode sounds, and in the process, it picks a high amount of noise in the sound signal. On the contrary, an external DAC can filter out such noise signals and output crystal-clear sounds. But high-profile soundcards can filter those noise too.