As the PC has evolved from a plain computer to an entertainmentcenter, the sound quality it produces has become an important consideration.
Most PCs come equipped with motherboards that have integrated sound chips thatprovide connectors for speakers, a headphone and line-in. Having an integratedsound card means that a separate sound card is not required.
A set of speakers is also part of the standard PC package. They can be thestand-alone type or the type that are integrated into the sides of yourmonitor. They are usually of low to mid grade quality.
Recommendation:
For everyday use the standard set up described above is sufficient.
If you're an audiophile, a music producer or a game player who wants the latestsurround sound effects, then a Sound Blaster card from Creative Labs or aTurtle Beach card from SantaCruz is what you would install in your PC.
When combined with a good set of speakers your PC can create very high qualityaudio. Logitech, Creative Labs and Altec Lansing make speakers designed forPCs.
To add a full, rich bass sound get a three-speaker system that includes awoofer speaker along with the left and right stereo speakers. If you want touse your PC to watch movies then go with a five-speaker system that providesfull, home theater surround sound.