Diamond Multimedia XtremeSound 7.1

Pros: Value, smooth performance, nice volume controls, SPDIF in works (for me)

Cons: clicky volume control, a minor nit.

The Bottom Line: If your motherboard sound isn't up to it (and many aren't), this will do the job economically.

Review: I've had a small Sony DAT recorder for some time. It records in CD quality on a tiny VCR-style tape just half the size of an audiocassette. As well as a line out/headphone socket, the TCD-D7 as a 7-pin SPDIF socket for digital playback/recording - ...

Pros: Affordable PCI sound card with all the features necessary to build a great HTPC

Cons: The only documentation is the quickstart guide.

The Bottom Line: I didn't want to spend a lot for hi-fi surround sound on DVDs. Diamond met all my requirements for PC audio, the SPDIF out port allows for true digital pass-through

Review: The Diamond Multimedia XtremeSound 7.1 Sound Card is a great alternative to the well known, high priced, excellent quality Creative Labs Sound Blaster products. I recently decided to upgrade my HTPC (Home Theater PC) from an ATI Multi-Media PC setup ...