I have an nforce2 ultra non-sound storm mobo and a very old creative live value.

question is, is it worth shelling out say $70 for a audigy 2 value? What tangible benefit does a new sound card offer for occasional music listening, rare movie watching, and sporadic game playing especially given I have a 2.1 speaker system?

If you dont have any problems with what you have and if the sound quality is good I dont know why you should buy an expensive sound card. If the sound buzzes or pops and clics alot, I would see if I could do something to fix it. If not, I woulld buy a new card.

Right now I have onboard 5.1 sound and I'm happy with it.

I agree with belama-- unless you really want good 5.7/7.1 sound, I'd stick with the old card. Personally, I just have a pair of 2.1 stereo speakers, and I'm just happy with my onboard sound, not being an audiophile.

Be a part of the DaniWeb community

We're a friendly, industry-focused community of developers, IT pros, digital marketers, and technology enthusiasts meeting, networking, learning, and sharing knowledge.