Soundcards For Dell Machines-Help!

[bobman]

I have a dell machine and need to get a new soundcard.I have heard that only certain types are compatible with dell machines.is this true?If yes any recommendations?If no,any recommendations?!!!
Thanks

[Rob Pomeroy]

I've not heard this before, and I see no particular reason why it should be true.  Choice of soundcard depends really on what you want it for.  I don't specialise in hardware selection, so can't help you a lot.  But I can tell you this: I recently bought a Soundblaster Audigy 2 PCI card (excellent in its day) second hand on eBay for £25 (about 45 bucks).  Very good 7.1 (full surround sound) soundcard for very little money.

If you don't have a spare PCI slot, you'll need an external soundcard (USB).  They are readily available these days.

[GX1_Man]

Any PCI soundcard will work in a Dell. This is a desktop, I presume? Why are you needing to change your sound? What model # is this or post your service tag # (on the machine or onscreen when you press the F2 key at boot) for more specific advice.

[soybean]

Recommendation for a low cost card:

Here's what I have installed in my computer: CHAINTECH AV-512 Sound Card - Retail.  Prior to installing it, I was using onboard sound.  I've had this card for about a year now and have had no problems with it.