What motherboards have the best quality onboard audio

[geekalicious]

I wouldn't exactly call myself an audiophile, but I do listen to a lot of music with my PC, and I'm tired of the poor signal-to-noise ratio on my analog out. I'm going to get a new mobo soon, and was wondering if anyone has an opinion on what mfgr. typically has the highest quality audio components. I may just end up buying a PCI card, but for now I'd like to hear peep's opinions.

THANKS!

 

[blackhawk1928]

The best solution is to get a receiver and use your digital-out connection. However, really modern high-end motherboards make really good sound-cards for music. I'm not sure on specifics, but modern ones are generally pretty good.

 

[Onus]

IF you want an AMD mobo, it's out of stock right now, but take a look at the Asus Crosshair V Formula: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131735
If you don't want to spend that much, OR if you want an Intel board, I suggest testing what you get. You can always add a sound card later.

 

[DelroyMonjo]

Most modern MoBo's using onboard audio have a 108 dB S/N ratio. I think your amplified speaker setup would have a greater influence on your 'listening experience'. Addon soundcards generally raise that to 116 to 124 dB and you get Dolby, EAX, and other neat stuff. You still need the speakers or headphones.
Pretty much depends on how much $$$ you want to spend. Sound is such a subjective quality.

 

[davcon]

Most quality mobo makers offer Realtek onboard audio.
ALC889 is generally the top offering.
While most boast 108 dB S/N ratio it's far from reality.
Most quality mobo reviews i've read measure the audio performance and it's mid 70's to mid 80 db S/N ratio at best.
Some makers offer higher end solutions on their top-end models like Asus Rampage(jtt283's) example.
Some going as far as including discrete pci sound cards.(MSI Big-Bangs)
I have two mobo's with ALC889 audio and both have Auzentech sound cards added.
I'm picky about my audio others are fine with onboard.

 

[geekalicious]

Best answer selected by geekalicious.

 

[geekalicious]

The best solution is to get a receiver and use your digital-out connection. However, really modern high-end motherboards make really good sound-cards for music. I'm not sure on specifics, but modern ones are generally pretty good.

Good point! Looks like there's a lot of boards with optical outs on them nowadays, that sounds great!

Thanks, all! Really appreciate all the feedback!