Confused on audio sources.

[NotSoHonestAbe]

I have a couple questions about the audio sources on my computer...

1. Are the front panel audio connectors the same as the connectors on the back of the motherboard? (I have an ASUS M4A88T-M, with a via realtek audio driver.)

2. Does the USB audio have a different source? I have a Logitech G510 Keyboard and when I plug my PC151's into the audio passthroughs on the back, it has completely different audio enhancements options. I have an nvidia GTS 450, and I think at some point I saw something about it having its own audio driver.

[t0wer]

1. if plugged into the motherboard header yes.

2. a usb device will use its own dac, and bypass the integrated sound.

and I assume your 450 has audio options when you use HDMI out, as HDMI is DVI + digital audio.

[NotSoHonestAbe]

Well can I use the audio source in the GTS 450 with my headphones? There are no audio ports on the back of it.

[h264]

1. No is the short answer. It has different circuitry, different power output, etc. Newer front panel is better, but still you've got that big long cable routed through the inside of your EMI heaven of a case. You may not notice a difference however. Try it and see if you hear any humming.

2. In this case your keyboard IS an external sound card. Amplifying on USB power has its limits, however. Your nvidia graphics may have an hdmi port on it, which will have its own pcm audio output built in. I've found this to be handy for routing digital audio to home theater receivers.

[NotSoHonestAbe]

Well how can I the use PC 151s with the GTS 450?

[t0wer]

by using HDMI.

you need a receiver or digital processor and amp.