IMPROVING GAMING AUDIO: DO SOUND CARDS REALLY MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
We’ve all been there: you’re sneaking through an abandoned building in a shooter game, suddenly hear footsteps behind you, spin around in a flash—only to realize the enemy actually came from the left. Your choice of sound card can be the deciding factor between victory and defeat, immerse you deeper into virtual worlds, and elevate your entire gaming experience.
From our community, we often get questions like: “Do I really need a sound card?” or “What’s the best sound card for gaming?” Many users turn to forums to figure out whether the investment is worth it or if the motherboard’s onboard solution is good enough.
A clear trend has emerged: in recent years, sound cards have lost significance among prebuilt PC manufacturers and many users alike. Today, the focus tends to be on CPU, GPU, and RAM—while audio hardware is often overlooked. Unfortunately, many systems come with rather weak onboard sound quality. That makes it all the more important to take a closer look.
In this article, we’ll debunk common myths and explain when a sound card is truly worth it—and when it’s not.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Important note: A dedicated sound card is only beneficial if you’re using analog headsets. With USB headsets that have built-in sound processing, the audio signal is transmitted entirely digitally (via USB) – your sound card is bypassed.
Now, let’s dive into the thrilling world of gaming sounds – POV: your ears.
What exactly is a sound card?
A sound card is (essentially) a specialized mini-computer dedicated solely to processing audio signals.
While your CPU juggles hundreds of tasks simultaneously, a sound card focuses exclusively on converting digital audio signals into analog ones (and vice versa) – with maximum precision.
What Makes a Good Sound Card?
Three key factors determine quality: a high-grade digital-to-analog converter (DAC), clean signal processing without interference, and powerful amplifiers for your headphones. Depending on the model, you might also get features like hardware-based surround sound processing, equalizers, and dedicated gaming modes.
We distinguish between internal, external, and onboard sound cards:
As the name suggests, Internal Sound Cards are installed inside your PC as PCIe expansion cards. Their direct connection to the motherboard ensures ultra-low latency. However, they’re more susceptible to electromagnetic interference from other components like graphics cards or power supplies. On the plus side, they don’t require extra space since they’re housed within the PC case.
External Sound Cards connect via USB or Thunderbolt and follow a plug-and-play approach. Being placed outside the PC case makes them less prone to interference, and they often come with extra features like built-in headphone amplifiers or DSP effects for a more refined audio experience.
The minor drawback for gamers: slightly higher latency (barely noticeable with modern devices). On the upside, they’re compatible with laptops, consoles, and even mobile devices. They also come in various designs tailored to different needs. Just a heads-up when buying: some models require additional peripherals.
Onboard vs. Dedicated Sound Cards
Onboard Sound Cards
Onboard sound cards are standard components of any modern motherboard. They’re built directly into the board and work out of the box without any additional hardware – ready to go from the very first boot. For everyday PC tasks like watching YouTube, listening to music, or casual gaming, they’re more than sufficient.
Problems tend to arise when onboard solutions are pushed to their limits (or beyond). That’s when you start hearing complaints like static noise, crackling, audio dropouts, flat sound, or poor microphone quality. And why does that happen?
Exactly – because the onboard sound card shares processing power with other motherboard components and is more vulnerable to interference from nearby hardware.
Dedicated Sound Cards
Dedicated sound cards – whether internal or external – are specialists. They come with their own shielding, use higher-quality components, and feature significantly more powerful amplifiers. What’s in it for you? Cleaner sound, fewer disturbances, and often better compatibility with high-end headphones.
The difference becomes especially noticeable when it comes to low latency. While onboard solutions may struggle with demanding audio tasks, dedicated cards deliver stable performance even under heavy load.
So, do you always need an expensive dedicated sound card for top-tier gaming audio? That’s not a question with a one-size-fits-all answer – and we’ll explore the reasons in the next section.
Why a Sound Cards matters for Gamers
Gaming audio is more than just “there.” A high-quality sound card enables precise spatial audio reproduction, allowing you not only to hear enemies but to pinpoint their exact location. In competitive shooters, that can be a game-changing advantage – you’ll know where the attack is coming from before the enemy even appears on screen.
The magic word here is 3D audio gaming. While stereo sound only distinguishes between left and right, modern sound cards simulate a full 360-degree soundscape.
This kind of surround sound gaming truly takes things to the next level: footsteps above you, explosions behind you, the reload of a weapon off to your left – everything is rendered with spatial accuracy. Goosebumps guaranteed, along with tactical advantages you can fully exploit.
The higher sound resolution of a dedicated sound card reveals details that onboard solutions often miss. These might be subtle ambient noises that enhance immersion, or critical audio cues like the clinking of armor or the drawing and loading of a weapon.
Also not to be underestimated: reduced audio latency. In fast-paced reaction games, low latency ensures that audio and visuals stay perfectly in sync – a benefit you’ll especially appreciate in titles that demand precise timing.
Want to learn more about 3D audio gaming or 3D audio in general? Then read this article to discover how you can make the most of it for your personalized gaming experience.
Sound Cards vs. Audio Interface: Which is bette for Gamers?
Both sound cards and audio interfaces enhance audio quality. However, their focus differs:
Gaming Sound Cards
Gaming sound cards are specifically optimized for gaming. They offer features like virtual surround sound, gaming EQ presets, and are tailored for immersive game audio playback.
Audio Interfaces
Audio interfaces originate from the music and recording world. They shine with professional-grade microphone preamps, ultra-low latency, and flexible analog connections. However, they often lack gaming-specific features.
Both approaches are valid – it all depends on what your primary use case is.
When is a Sound ard worth it – and when an audio interface?
You should opt for a sound card if:
- Gaming is your primary activity.
- You value easy setup and gaming-focused features.
- Virtual surround sound and custom EQ modes matter to you.
- You mainly use analog gaming headsets.
Discover our analog gaming headsets now:
An audio interface is the better choice if:
- You stream, podcast, or record music.
- Professional microphone quality is important to you.
- You want to use different types of microphones (XLR, condenser).
- You need flexibility with inputs and outputs.
Tip: Start by considering your primary use case. Pure gaming? Go with a sound card. Content creation with gaming as a secondary activity? An audio interface ist he better fit.
The role of USB DACs and Gaming Headsets with Built-In Sound Processing
Many devices come with built-in DACs – but that doesn’t automatically mean high quality. External USB DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters) are the minimal solution for improved sound. These compact devices convert digital signals into analog – turning data into audio – and are ideal for console gaming or when you need a portable setup. The downside? They usually offer fewer features than full-fledged sound cards.
Gaming headsets with integrated sound cards, on the other hand, deliver ultimate plug-and-play convenience. Just plug them in and you’re good to go. All sound processing happens inside the headset, making your PC’s sound card irrelevant. It’s practical, but limits customization options and narrows your headset choices.
These compromise solutions are perfect for gamers who don’t want to tinker with hardware but still expect better audio than what onboard chips can deliver.
Our DT 1770 PRO MKII model, paired with the PRO X USB-C Cable (1.6 m), features a built-in 3-pole DAC, and the cable itself includes an integrated sound card. This makes the multi-talented headphone a true professional solution for studio environments – and it holds its own in gaming too, where sound quality, wearing comfort, and build excellence are just as crucial.
Practical Examples and Sample Setups
Setup 1: Casual Gaming
- Onboard sound and an affordable gaming headset.
- Perfectly sufficient for occasional gaming sessions and multimedia use.
- Example: MMX 150 wireless
MMX 150 wireless
The MMX 150 Wireless is the ideal entry point for your personalized gaming experience. Discover this closed-back gaming headset for everyday use and gaming – and sign up to be notified when it’s available.
Setup 2: Powergaming
- Dedicated sound card and high-quality analog headphones.
- Maximum sound quality and gaming-specific features.
- Example: DT 770 PRO or DT 900 PRO X
Depending on your individual needs, our open or closed PRO headphones are a great alternative to our gaming headsets – perfect for your next immersive gaming adventure. Explore now >
Setup 3: Streaming
- Audio interface and XLR microphone (see TG series) + gaming headset.
- Professional streaming quality combined with solid gaming audio for Let’s Plays and walkthroughs.
Setup 4: Console Gaming
- USB DAC and gaming headset.
- Choose between analog or wireless setups.
- Compact, compatible with PS5/Xbox, and delivers significantly better sound than the standard controller jack.
MMX 230 wireless
The MMX 230 Wireless offers everything passionate gamers need – a premium headset built for long gaming sessions and professional streaming experiences. Sign up now to be notified when it’s available!
Conclusion: Which Sound Solution is right for You?
An onboard sound card is absolutely sufficient. To get the most out of your gaming experience, it’s better to invest in a quality gaming headset.
A dedicated sound card can give you a real edge. Precise audio positioning and low input lag make the investment worthwhile.
An audio interface is the better choice. Professional microphone quality matters more than gaming-specific features.
Take your time and test how far you can get with your current setup. Often, upgrading your headset makes a bigger difference than switching to a new sound card. Even an internal sound card can be gaming-compatible if you only play occasionally (and don’t run a home studio).
And don’t forget: with USB headsets that have built-in sound processing, your PC’s sound card won’t make any difference. In the end, the best sound is the one that fits your setup and your needs.