The Most Popular Sound Card, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the sound card you think is the most popular!
Updated on Apr 29, 2024 06:50
For audio enthusiasts and gamers alike, the choice of a sound card can significantly enhance the auditory experience. As the market continues to flood with new innovations and technologies, selecting the best sound card becomes a challenging task. A ranked list of popular sound cards can help clear the confusion, offering insights into performance, user satisfaction, and value.
By participating in this live ranking, users contribute to a dynamic evaluation of sound cards based on real-world usage and preferences. This process not only assists future buyers in making informed decisions but also pushes manufacturers to strive for higher quality and innovation. Every vote counts in shaping a transparent and community-driven guide to today's top sound card choices.
What Is the Most Popular Sound Card?
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147votes
Creative Sound Blaster Z
Creative Technology LtdThis sound card is popular for its 116 dB signal-to-noise ratio, 24-bit/192kHz audio output, and advanced audio processing technology. It is compatible with Windows and Intel-based Macs.The Creative Sound Blaster Z is a popular sound card known for its exceptional audio quality and features. It is designed for gamers, music enthusiasts, and movie lovers who seek immersive and high-fidelity sound experiences. With its advanced audio processing technology, it enhances audio playback, offers customizable audio settings, and provides immersive surround sound for a truly captivating audio experience.- Audio Resolution: 24-bit
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): 116dB
- Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): 0.0008%
- Playback Channels: 5.1
- Max Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
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224votesThis sound card is popular for its high-fidelity audio performance, 124 dB signal-to-noise ratio, and swappable op-amp sockets for customized sound tuning. It is compatible with Windows and Linux.The ASUS Xonar Essence STX II is a high-end sound card that delivers superior audio quality for audiophiles and gaming enthusiasts. It is designed to provide an immersive audio experience with crystal-clear sound reproduction and accurate audio positioning. The sound card offers a wide range of features and customization options to optimize the audio output according to the user's preference.
- Audio Processor: ASUS AV100 Hi-Fi
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): 124 dB
- Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): 0.0003%
- Max Sample Rate: 192 kHz
- Max Bit Depth: 24-bit
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328votes
EVGA NU Audio Pro
EVGA CorporationThis sound card is popular for its audiophile-grade components, including a high-performance AK4493 DAC, a swappable op-amp, and a built-in headphone amplifier. It is compatible with Windows and macOS.The EVGA NU Audio Pro is a high-end sound card developed by EVGA Corporation. It is specifically designed for audiophiles and gaming enthusiasts seeking an exceptional audio experience.- Audio Output Channels: 7.1 Virtual Surround
- Dynamic Range (DNR): 123 dB
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): 123 dB
- Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): 111 dB
- DAC Resolution: 32-bit / 384 kHz
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414votes
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
FocusriteThis sound card is popular for its compact size, ease of use, and high-quality microphone preamps. It is compatible with Windows and macOS.The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a popular USB audio interface sound card. It is designed for professional-grade recording and playback, offering high-quality sound reproduction and low-latency performance. The sound card is compact and portable, making it popular among musicians, podcasters, and content creators.- Audio Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4" combo (mic/line/instrument)
- Outputs: 2 x 1/4" TRS
- Preamps: 2 x Scarlett mic preamps
- Headphone Output: 1 x 1/4" TRS
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58votes
M-Audio M-Track 2X2
M-AudioThis sound card is popular for its low-latency performance, rugged design, and compatibility with popular recording software. It is compatible with Windows and macOS.The M-Audio M-Track 2X2 is a popular sound card designed for musicians, producers, and audio enthusiasts seeking high-quality audio performance. It serves as an essential tool for recording and playback of audio on computers and laptops.- Connection Type: USB 2.0
- Sampling Rate: 24-bit/192kHz
- No. of Inputs: 2
- No. of Outputs: 2
- Input Types: Combo XLR/TRS with Phantom Power
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612votes
Behringer U-Phoria UMC202HD
BehringerThis sound card is popular for its affordability, high-quality audio performance, and compatibility with a wide range of recording software. It is compatible with Windows and macOS.The Behringer U-Phoria UMC202HD is a popular sound card designed for audio recording and production. This compact USB interface offers high-quality, studio-grade audio performance at an affordable price.- Interface Type: USB 2.0
- Analog Inputs: 2 x XLR/TRS Combo (Mic/Line/Instrument)
- Analog Outputs: 2 x TRS
- Max Sample Rate: 24-bit/192kHz
- Phantom Power: 48V
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75votes
Tascam US-2x2
TascamThis sound card is popular for its low-latency performance, high-quality audio components, and compatibility with iOS devices. It is compatible with Windows, macOS, and iOS.The Tascam US-2x2 is a popular sound card designed for professional audio recording and playback. It offers high-quality audio performance and versatile connectivity options.- Input Channels: 2
- Output Channels: 2
- Max Sample Rate: 96 kHz
- Resolution: 24-bit
- Connection Type: USB
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87votes
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96
PreSonusThis sound card is popular for its ease of use, portability, and compatibility with PreSonus Studio One software. It is compatible with Windows and macOS.The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is a widely popular sound card designed for professional audio recording and production purposes. It offers high-quality audio performance, versatile connectivity options, and a user-friendly interface.- Audio Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
- Number of Inputs: 2
- Number of Outputs: 2
- Microphone Inputs: XLR/TRS combo jacks
- Line Inputs: 2x 1/4" TRS
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98votes
RME Babyface Pro
RME AudioThis sound card is popular for its professional-grade audio performance, compatibility with a wide range of recording software, and compact size. It is compatible with Windows and macOS.The RME Babyface Pro is a highly popular sound card that offers professional-grade audio recording and playback capabilities in a compact and portable design. It is known for its exceptional sound quality, reliability, and advanced features.- Inputs: 12 x 12
- Analog Inputs: 4 x XLR/TRS Combo, 2 x TRS Line
- Analog Outputs: 2 x XLR, 2 x TRS Line, 1 x Headphone
- Digital I/O: ADAT/SPDIF
- Sample Rates: Up to 192 kHz
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107votes
Apogee Duet
Apogee ElectronicsThis sound card is popular for its high-quality audio performance, compatibility with macOS and iOS devices, and sleek design. It is compatible with macOS and iOS.The Apogee Duet is a highly regarded sound card known for its exceptional audio quality and compact design. It is commonly used by musicians, producers, and audio enthusiasts seeking professional-grade recording and playback capabilities.- Audio Resolution: Up to 24-bit/192kHz
- Number of Inputs: 2
- Number of Outputs: 4
- Interface: USB-C
- Preamps: 2 built-in microphone preamps
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Discussion
Ranking factors for popular sound card
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CompatibilitySound cards should ideally be compatible with a wide range of systems and operating systems.
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FeaturesSound cards that offer advanced features like 3D sound, multiple audio inputs and outputs, and low latency should be ranked higher.
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PriceThe cost of sound cards should be considered, and those that offer great value for money should be given priority.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular sound card. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or sound card is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 2131 views
- 161 votes
- 10 ranked items
Movers & Shakers
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each sound card once every 24 hours. The rank of each sound card is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular sound card
Sound cards are an integral part of any computer system, as they allow you to hear the audio output from your machine. They come in various shapes and sizes, catering to different needs and budgets. Sound cards were first introduced in the late 1980s, and since then, they have been a popular choice among computer enthusiasts and gamers alike.
Today, sound cards have evolved significantly, with many offering high-quality audio output, advanced features, and support for multiple channels. Some of the most popular brands in the market include Creative, Asus, and Gigabyte, with each offering a wide range of sound cards to choose from.
When it comes to selecting the most popular sound card, it largely depends on the user's requirements and budget. Gamers may prefer sound cards with low latency and high-quality sound output, while music producers may look for cards with advanced features and support for multiple channels. In any case, it's essential to do your research and select a sound card that meets your needs and fits your budget.
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