I needed a new soundcard after my mb just stopped recognizing it's sound drivers. This works AMAZINGLY! So, what are the issues: The inputs are not colored or really labeled well. That means that if you have to unplug your devices, you kinda have to guess and remember which of the 6 ports is which. Not a big issue, but colored labels would've been great. Next issue. The outputs do NOT work on their own. So basically, while you have 3 output ports, you only can use them in 2.1/5.1/7.1 configuration meaning that your main output port is for your regular PC sound and the other 2 ports are for powered subwoofer and rear channel speakers. There is no option for normal Line Out function which is what I REALLY needed to use, and why I brought this one specifically. Third issue, I was not able to find a way to use the soundcard as a source of recording. For example, I wanted to record a MIDI sound file to a DAW, but the the card would only allow me to record from the MIC ports or the Line-IN port. Maybe there is a way to do this, but I spent about 2 hours trying to figure this out, updated the software etc and nothing.OVERALL....if you need to record from a MIC, or sound source plugged into the Line-IN, You're golden. This will do the job. The sound is crisp and clean. NO issues on the sound, and I'm sure the surround would sound nice. However, for some of my needs it missed some of the marks. IN A PINCH...this is a good card. It'll do the job.

Very easy to install. Produces a wonderfully strong and balanced digital sound.

Sounds better than my onboard , miss the old equalizer