Question External USB DAC with discrete 5.1 outputs

[CubsWin]

I am looking for an external USB DAC to use for both:

• Discrete 5.1 audio to Logitech Z906 speakers
• Headset

In the past, I have always used internal sound cards, but I'm looking to free up a slot in my case. It looks like the Sound Blaster X4 would do everything I need, but I'm not a huge fan of Creative's software and I'm not opposed to spending more money if there are any better options. I don't really see any other options with discrete 5.1 channel output though. Does anyone have any other recommendations for feeding both my speaker system and a headset?

 

[COLGeek]

If I may ask, why are you freeing up a slot in your PC? The internal PCIe sound card option would be effective and cost less.

For example: https://us.creative.com/p/sound-blaster/sound-blaster-audigy-rx

Here are some other options, as well:

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=external...xternal+dac,aps,83&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_2_12

I can see the attraction of the sound card/external DAC option.

https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Internal-Quad-Core-Processor-SABRE-class/dp/B07T9YYVV6/

 

[CubsWin]

If I may ask, why are you freeing up a slot in your PC? The internal PCIe sound card option would be effective and cost less.

I'm preparing to build a new PC, which will already have a large graphics card, a USB expansion card, and a video capture card in PCIE slots. That likely leaves 1 accessible slot where I "could" fit a sound card, but my preference would be to keep another slot open under the graphics card if possible.

 

[COLGeek]

I'm preparing to build a new PC, which will already have a large graphics card, a USB expansion card, and a video capture card in PCIE slots. That likely leaves 1 accessible slot where I "could" fit a sound card, but my preference would be to keep another slot open under the graphics card if possible.

Understood. The previous Amazon link gives a few options. Take your pick.