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Best External Sound Cards for 2023 - You Should Know About

Phill Billy
  Oct 1, 2023 12:11 PM

Look for standalone models if you want the best external sound cards. These come with control modules to adjust sound levels for each device you’re using, with additional ports to attach various audio devices, with a plethora of options for those who want to delve into sound recording, and with perfectly clear sound worthy of audiophile headphones and speaker systems.

We scoured the internet and found nine sound cards that will satisfy even the most discerning audiophiles. For those seeking external options, we have a couple of excellent DACs, as well as high-end choices, excellent budget options, USB cards, and USB cards for those seeking high-end options. Take a look at them below.


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Last update on 2023-10-01 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API


Top Picks

1. Best Sale: UGREEN USB to Audio Jack Sound Card Adapter

The UGREEN USB to Audio Jack Sound Card Adapter is a device that allows you to connect headphones and microphones with a 3.5mm jack to a device that only has a USB port. It has dual TRS 3-pole 3.5mm connectors, one for the headphone and one for the microphone. The adapter converts the audio signal from the 3.5mm jack to a digital signal that can be transmitted over a USB connection. It is compatible with a variety of devices, including Windows and Mac computers, Linux PCs, laptops, and desktops, and it can also be used with the PlayStation 5. The adapter is available in black.

2. Best Overall: Sound BlasterX G6 Hi-Res

The Sound BlasterX G6 is a gaming DAC (digital-to-analog converter) that connects to a device via USB. It is designed to improve the audio quality of gaming, music, and movies, and it can be used with a variety of devices, including the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo. The G6 has a high-resolution audio capability, with a 130dB signal-to-noise ratio and a 32bit/384kHz resolution. It also has a built-in Xamp headphone amplifier, which provides a clean and powerful audio output. The G6 supports Dolby Digital and has 7.1 virtual surround sound, which provides a realistic and immersive audio experience. It also has a sidetone/speaker control feature, which allows you to adjust the balance between game audio and chat audio.

3. Best Budget: Creative Labs Sound Blaster Play!

The Creative Labs Sound Blaster Play! 3 is a USB sound adapter that allows you to add high-quality audio to your computer or laptop. It is designed for use with Windows and Mac devices, and it does not require any drivers to be installed. The Play! 3 has a 24-bit/96kHz audio resolution, which provides improved audio quality compared to the standard audio resolution of 16-bit/48kHz. It also has a plug-and-play design, which means it can be easily connected to a device and used immediately. The Play! 3 has a compact and portable design, making it easy to take with you when you're on the go. It is a good option for those who want to improve the audio quality of their computer or laptop without having to invest in a new sound card.


Buying Guides

An external sound card is a device that connects to a computer or other device through a USB port or other interface and provides audio input and output capabilities. It can be used to improve the audio quality of a computer or other device, or to add audio capabilities to a device that does not have them built-in.

External sound cards can be used for a variety of purposes, including gaming, music production, and video editing. They often have a higher audio quality than the built-in sound card of a computer or other device, and they may also have additional features such as virtual surround sound or a built-in headphone amplifier. Some external sound cards are designed specifically for use with a particular type of device, such as a PC or a gaming console, while others are more versatile and can be used with a wide range of devices.

There are several factors to consider when choosing an external sound card. These include the audio quality, the type of connection (such as USB or Firewire), the compatibility with your device, and the additional features it offers. It is also important to consider the price and whether it fits within your budget.

UGreen Sound Adapter | Review & Unboxing Sunday

There are a few key factors to consider when choosing the best external sound card for your needs:

Audio quality

Make sure to choose a sound card that offers high-quality audio. Look for a sound card with a high bit depth (such as 24-bit) and a high sample rate (such as 96kHz or 192kHz).

Type of connection

Consider the type of connection you will need to connect the sound card to your device. USB is a common choice, but some sound cards also offer connections such as Firewire or PCI Express.

Compatibility

Make sure the sound card is compatible with your device. Some sound cards are designed specifically for use with a particular type of device, such as a PC or a gaming console, while others are more versatile and can be used with a wide range of devices.

Additional features

Look for a sound card with additional features that may be useful to you, such as virtual surround sound, a built-in headphone amplifier, or support for Dolby Digital.

Price

Consider the price of the sound card and whether it fits within your budget. Keep in mind that higher-priced sound cards may offer better quality and more features, but they may not always be the best value for your money.

It can be helpful to read reviews and compare the features and specs of different sound cards to find the one that best fits your needs and budget.


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