In search of recommendations.

[jam08060]

So I don't really know a whole lot about sound cards and such so I was wondering if I could get some insight into what would be the best option for me.

 

I was looking at purchasing a sound card from ASUS, specifically the Xonar Essence STX.

 

My question is:

 

Would I be better off with something like a Fiio E10, the STX, or should I use both?

 

I'm mainly wanting a better than on-board audio solution for music while I'm programming or gaming.  Also call quality (i.e. Skype) is very important.

 

Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

 

 

Edit: Also, any recommendations for some reasonably priced (100-300$) headphones would be fantastic!

[MrFub]

The Fiio E10 should be good. I think Xonar would be over kill.

[EmoRarity]

Do you have headphones to make use of anything more then on-board. 

[jam08060]

The Fiio E10 should be good. I think Xonar would be over kill.

 

Well I'm kind of picky with the overall quality of my music, I just don't know much about audio hardware...

[jam08060]

Do you have headphones to make use of anything more then on-board. 

 

Currently in the market for some, probably should add that to the original post and get some recommendations there also,

 

I was interested in the Sennheiser HD 558s but haven't really looked around much or read/watched any reviews yet.

 

Edit: Just saw the 598's and those would match my rig better so maybe those

[EmoRarity]

Currently in the market for some, probably should add that to the original post and get some recommendations there also,

 

I was interested in the Sennheiser HD 558s but haven't really looked around much or read/watched any reviews yet.

Those don't need an amp. Onboard will do fine.

[jam08060]

Those don't need an amp. Onboard will do fine.

 

So that is a no to both the Fiio10 and the Soundcard?

[EmoRarity]

So that is a no to both the Fiio10 and the Soundcard?

In a nut shell. 

[pierrelucsav]

So that is a no to both the Fiio10 and the Soundcard?

 

Definitely no to the soundcard, as for the Fiio it could be worth it if you plan on buying higher impedance headphones. You don't need a dedicated amp to drive the HD598 loud enough, so unless your onboard has audible issues, save yourself some money.