For anyone looking for a solution for the soundcard, and using an external analog output isolated from the noisy computer, you might want to consider this product:

http://www.stereo.net.au/forums/showthread.php?t=6377

Wow, that's a bargain.

Phil

What is it?
you need a stereo-net account to view that page.

That is cheap, considering all those options

I might just have to get one to play with

damnit!
what is it?

it's free to see

Hmm.. doesnt let me in. Wants me to log in. And the forums says that folder is Private.

Just sign up Ice .... don't dilly dally around ....

I refuse... on the grounds that I already have 1 hobby I cant afford.
Anyway, I dont need whatver it actually is - I seem to be doing alright without it

You know you want it

definately consider it for my next project - HTPC

I"ve heard mixed reviews about this unit's "soundcard" output quality and it seems that the consensus is that its primary job is a usb -> digital/optical link to a DAC.

The 16 bit sampling chip in there seems decent but for bang for buck (and a similar performance) I'd still go with the behringer unit that Pulse-R recommended me (uca-202)

For about $50 bucks, u can't go wrong!

p.s. iceman, its a trends audio ud-10.1, the guys from coem audio sell it on their website and its on offer to stereo net members

Ok, thanks for that guys.
I've already got a better card so I'll have to pass
For anyone interested, Ive got an E-MU 1820M.

For anyone interested in buying, USB is a good thing for eliminating noise created within the PC (PCI bus).

If you dont mind me asking, where did you buy that from and what sort of pricing would be expected for same?

x2.
I've got the SoundBlaster Audigy 2 NX (external USB) and not happy with it. I looked into the E-MU's but i needed an external sound card, cant fit an internal in my enclosure.

Both the 1820 and 1820m connect to a full height PCI card inside the PC using a few cable. I used a flex PCI adapater to fit mine in (on its side). I have the 1820M relocated to an easily accessible spot in the boot .

Price wise, I got my 1820M for about $750 AUS.
I have an 1820 (non M - which is 95% as good as the M version [ M version has slightly higher specs and has an additional pci card that you will never use) which I am thinking of selling.

PM me for me info.