Sound Card ~ Do I Need One?

[Grayson Stonyhammer]

I am sort of new to the PC community, so I don't know too much things. I built my PC in February (2014), and the sound of watching videos/playing games sounds pretty normal to me. Although I do see a lot of people buying after market sound cards. I am just wondering will my MSI 970a G43 mobo need an after market sound card for playing games/video watching. The audio sounds normal to me, I am just wondering what is the point of getting an after market sound card and do I need/should get an after market sound card? 

 

If I should/need to get a sound card please recommend me one below, I am not sure how expensive they go up to but I would like one that isn't too expensive please ($30-$55 range). Thank you!  

[EmoRarity]

Simple answer, no. 
Long answer, depends on your headphones, but no. 

[Altecice]

If you have a modern motherboard, No.

[hammerslap1]

if you are into spending some money a amp/dac will give you much more sound possabilities

[TheTiger]

Need? No. Want? YES!
I picked up an Asus Xonar DGX with simple Suround Sound Visualising + AMP and I don't want to miss it, also I just payed 35€ for it, well worth it!

[SSL]

Chances are it would make no difference. Oh, except you'd have 30 fewer bucks.

 

Not worth it.

[Grayson Stonyhammer]

For those wondering I am using Razer Kraken Pro (Green Edition) heaphones, and an MSI 970a-G43 motherboard. 

[creatip123]

For those wondering I am using Razer Kraken Pro (Green Edition) heaphones, and an MSI 970a-G43 motherboard. 

 

The more reason for: no....

[Grayson Stonyhammer]

I appreciate all the answers. It seems the majority think it's not worth it. Thanks for the help! 

[creatip123]

I appreciate all the answers. It seems the majority think it's not worth it. Thanks for the help! 

 

To be more precise, the few possibilities where you might want to consider a dedicated sound card:

 

- If your onboard is broken or not working properly

- If your onboard can't drive the headphone to the proper normal hearing volume. Even then, it's better to go with an external amp, but some people prefer sound cards, because less clutters, etc

 

The truth is, dedicated sound card industries took major sales hits when onboard audios in mobos were becoming better and better. That's why they work hard in advertising to keep their products exist in the market....