[linux-audio-user] Cheap 5.1 soundcard?

[Russell Hanaghan]

On Thu, 2004-04-22 at 08:59, olig9 at gmx.de wrote:
> Hi,
> as the onboard soundchip on my Epox 8RDA3+ (CMedia 9739) doesn't work 
> very well, I'm looking for a cheap soundcard which can handle 5.1 sound. 
> It should run under Linux (Debian Sarge, Kernel 2.6) and Win98, and I 
> want to be able to play AC3 sound (that can be done in software, right?).
> I've already looked around and found several cheap 5.1 cards, but I have 
> doubts about their Linux compatibility... Can you tell me something 
> about these cards:
> 
> Creative Soundblaster 4.1 Digital
> Creative Soundblaster live 5.1 Digital

I have been using just a regular SB Live 5.1 (Has AC3 Digital out but
I've never used it. I believe it does work in Linux with some messing
about) I get reasonable latency with Jack (like under 10ms) and it is
seemingly robust. I don't use it for recording though. I use it for live
use as part of a Linux FX box on a Dell CPXj 650. I run Ardour as my
"mixer" and several LADSPA plugs (Chorus, Freeverb and Delay) with
qjackctl and jack on Mdk 9.2 with the Multimedia kernel.(2.4.22mm from
Thacs RPM's) I have a CII docking station that has 2 PCI slots. The midi
also is somewhat useful as you can load whatever soundfont you like only
limited by physical memory. I use Fluidsynth for that. 

Considering I paid $19.00 US for this card...Price cant be beat! 

> Typhoon Acoustic Six 5+1
> Terratec Aureon 5.1 Fun
> 
> Is any of these cards well supported by Alsa, and can I play 5.1 and AC3 
> sound with it? I've already nearly decided for the SB live 5.1 Digital 
> but then noticed that it's not that well supported...
> 
> Or is there any other card which you could recommend? I don't want to 
> spend too much, it should definitely stay below 50 EUR, but I don't have 
> high expectations (playing MP3s and games, watching movies, getting 
> system sounds...).
> 
> 
> Thanks in advance for your help,
> Oliver Gerlich