Computer Inquiries

[ultama121]

Well, I'm just about ready to go ahead and order my computer parts, but I have some questions first.

I'm wondering if there are any tools or materials I will need to build my computer aside from the computer parts themselves.
I'm having an issue deciding which sound card to buy, so far I've found 2 Creatives that I might purchase. This: http://us.creative.com/products/product.asp?category=1&subcategory=208&product=16770&nav=3
or this:http://us.creative.com/products/product.asp?category=1&subcategory=208&product=15853
If you have any other recommendations, please tell :).


Thanks. :)

Edit: If it matters, I'm going to be running Windows Vista Home Premium 32-bit and I may reformat my old harddrive and install Linux on that harddrive.
Compatibility with Linux is only really a plus for me now, its not mandatory.

[Atty]

First, don't buy from Creative's site, second you probably won't need a Sound Card unless you need extra inputs/outputs.

I suggest buying a PC tool kit, all non-magnetic tools, anti static wrist band, and various other micro tools that are very helpful for working in a computer environment. I picked up a 50 piece tool kit from NewEgg for $5.99 a few months back and I love having it, I've never found myself needing anything outside of my little leather case, and thats with dissasembling and reassembling PC's on a day-day basis.

[ultama121]

I'm buying from NewEgg, those were simply used as references. Also, are you sure about sound cards? I've been told that good sound cards dramatically improve sound quality, especially for gamers. Also, does a tool kit such as what you mentioned include all of those other tools you mentioned? (example: antistatic wrist band)
Edit: I need to spread rep :smith:

[ExAm]

Integrated sound chips are getting better, but no matter what, I've always found that my sound card gives me better sound than the onboard chipset. In games, though, hardware acceleration makes the sound weird, so I stick to the software. However, using the sound card as the output still gives it better clarity, IMO.

[ultama121]

Thanks :). I'm probably going to go with the X-Fi Xtreme Gamer though.

[Amit]

Unless you're using 5.1 Surround Sound or up I doubt you'd need anything more than a Realtek HD Audio. I think most Intel boards have that but other have Sigmatel.

[ultama121]

Unless you're using 5.1 Surround Sound or up I doubt you'd need anything more than a Realtek HD Audio. I think most Intel boards have that but other have Sigmatel.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16836150048 ;)