11/18   Can anyone recommend a decent sound card that isn't too
        expensive?  I currently don't have any sound when I play games
        and I would like some decent sound for under $40.  Thanks.
        \_ I picked up a Creative Ensoniq AudioPCI and it sounds fairly good.
           Only cost me $29.95. --marc
        \_ Anything with a ESS1869F chipset for $11-$15 for an ISA card.
           I've bought 4 of these, am using 2 and have had no probs.  Go
           with the SB Live if you want to spend > $50. -jctwu
           \_ Could you give a simple description of why some sound cards
              might be better?  Can you hear an obvious difference between
              an $11-$15 sound card and a $75 sound card?  Thanks again.
              \_ > $50 sound cards are usu. PCI, and lessen CPU processing
                 of sound, esp. for 44 kHz (CD-quality) sound.  This would
                 speed frame rates in games like Unreal.  Newer cards also
                 have sophisticated 3-D effects that 3D shooters seem to use.
                 You also usu. get real MIDI instrument samples, but mainly
                 benefit is in CPU cycles.  DOS audio support = insuff. -jctwu
              \_ There's also 3D positional sound technologies now, like
                 Aureal 3D and Creative Labs' EAX. I've found A3D to be
                 pretty much as advertised, but nothing earth shattering.
                 More expensive sound crads also have support for four
                 speakers for Dolby Digital / Surround Sound support.
              \_ it's like this, A3D is older, and EAX is brand new but
                 supported by Creative Labs (SB Live) products.  Half-Life
                 supports both stds. -jctwu