Tyler Wynn
Sound cards, also known as audio cards, are pieces of hardware installed inside a computer to process and output audio. They are not a necessary component for computers anymore, as modern PCs have good audio quality built into the motherboard. However, sound cards can improve the audio experience on a PC and are beneficial for older motherboards that do not have the required ports. They are also useful for music production or audio-focused work and can provide optimal audio quality for lossless audio files. For gamers, a sound card is not necessary but could be considered for those seeking the ultimate audio experience.
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What You'll Learn
Motherboards and speakers
A PC speaker is a loudspeaker built into some IBM PC-compatible computers. The first IBM Personal Computer, model 5150, used a standard 2.25-inch magnetically driven (dynamic) speaker. Modern computers use a tiny moving-iron or piezo speaker. The speaker allows software and firmware to provide auditory feedback to a user, such as to report a hardware fault. A PC speaker generates waveforms using the programmable interval timer, an Intel 8253 or 8254 chip.
Most motherboards will have a speaker, but it is only designed to give an audible beep if there are system issues. The motherboard will have audio functionality with sockets for a microphone and speakers.
The PC speaker was often used innovatively to create the impression of polyphonic music or sound effects within computer games of its era, such as the LucasArts series of adventure games from the mid-1980s. However, due to the technique's sensitivity to timing issues, these effects caused noticeable sluggishness on slower PCs and sometimes failed on faster ones.
When sound cards became mainstream in the PC market after 1990, they quickly replaced the PC speaker as the preferred output device for sound effects. Most newly released PC games stopped supporting the speaker during the second half of the 1990s. Modern Microsoft Windows systems have PC speaker support as a separate device with special capabilities, but it cannot be configured as a normal audio output device.
For playing sound on a PC, you can use headphones or external speakers.
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Audio troubleshooting
Audio issues on your computer can be frustrating, but many can be resolved with simple troubleshooting steps. Here are some tips to help you fix audio or sound problems on your Windows computer:
Check your audio output device
If you have multiple audio output devices connected to your computer, ensure that you have selected the appropriate one. Click on the Speakers icon on the taskbar, then select the arrow to the right of the speaker volume slider. This will open a list of audio devices connected to your computer. Check that your audio is playing to the correct device, such as your preferred speaker or headphones.
Update your audio drivers
Outdated or corrupted drivers are a common cause of audio problems. To update your audio drivers, follow these steps:
- In the search box on the taskbar, type "Device Manager" and open it.
- Expand the "Sound, video, and game controllers" section.
- Right-click on your audio device and select "Update Driver".
- Choose "Search automatically for updated driver software" and follow the on-screen instructions.
Restart your computer
Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve audio issues. If you have recently plugged in a new audio device, such as a gaming headset, restarting your computer will ensure that the new device is recognized and set as the default output.
Check your volume settings
Ensure that your audio devices are not muted and have not been disabled. Click on the Speakers icon on the taskbar and adjust the volume slider. If you see an "X" next to the volume control, it indicates that the device is muted.
Disable audio enhancements
Audio enhancements can sometimes interfere with sound output. To disable them, go to the Sound settings and scroll to Advanced settings. Set Audio enhancements to "Off" from the dropdown menu.
If you are using a Windows 10 or 11 device, you can also run the automated audio troubleshooter in the Get Help app. It will automatically run diagnostics and attempt to fix most audio problems.
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Audio output devices
An audio output device is a hardware component that allows your computer to produce sound. It converts digital signals into audible sound that can be heard through speakers or headphones. Speakers and headphones are the most common audio output devices. Speakers are external devices that convert electrical signals into audible vibrations through the use of drivers. Headphones, on the other hand, are personal audio devices that deliver sound directly into the user's ears.
In addition to these traditional options, there are also more advanced audio output devices available, such as soundbars and surround sound systems. Soundbars are long speaker units that enhance the audio experience by providing better clarity and depth of sound. Surround sound systems, on the other hand, consist of multiple speakers strategically positioned around a room to create a three-dimensional immersive listening experience.
When you play an audio file or stream a video on your computer, the software sends digital signals representing the sounds to the operating system. The operating system then routes these signals to the appropriate audio output device. The audio output device receives the digital signals and converts them into analog signals that can be understood by speakers or headphones. This conversion process is carried out by a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) within the audio output device.
It is important to note that audio output devices need to be selected as the default playback device in your computer's sound settings to function properly. Additionally, keeping your drivers updated and configurations correct is essential to avoid any frustrating error messages related to audio output devices.
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Sound cards
Firstly, if you have an older motherboard that does not have the required ports or does not support audio features such as surround sound, a sound card can be used to add these functionalities. Additionally, if your motherboard's integrated sound card encounters a hardware issue, installing a dedicated sound card can provide a solution.
External sound cards, or DACs (digital-to-analog converters), are also an option and can be beneficial in reducing electromagnetic interference from the computer's internal components. They are also more portable and can be easily connected to different computers via a USB cable. However, they may require an additional amplifier if they do not provide enough output for your audio devices.
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Headphones
Whether you are a gamer, a music enthusiast, or a movie buff, achieving the best sound quality through your headphones is essential. While computers typically have built-in speakers, using headphones can provide a more immersive and tailored listening experience.
When it comes to connecting headphones to your computer, you have two main options: plugging them directly into your PC or connecting them through your monitor. Most modern computers feature 3.5mm audio jacks, allowing for easy headphone connectivity. Additionally, some PCs offer USB connections or high-quality USB DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) options for headphones.
If you opt for connecting your headphones to your PC, you gain greater control over your audio settings. PCs generally provide extensive audio customization, enabling you to adjust equalization, audio effects, and surround sound settings to suit your preferences. This level of customization can be particularly advantageous for audiophiles and gamers seeking to fine-tune their audio experience. Connecting your headphones to your PC also ensures compatibility with various applications, including music players, video conferencing software, and gaming platforms.
On the other hand, connecting your headphones to your monitor can offer convenience and a tidier setup, especially if you have multiple devices connected to it, such as a gaming console or another computer. This approach eliminates the need for running a separate cable from your PC to your headphones, reducing cable clutter on your desk. Additionally, if your PC is located at a distance, connecting your headphones to the monitor provides a more accessible alternative.
Ultimately, the decision between connecting your headphones to your PC or monitor depends on your specific needs and preferences. Experimenting with both setups can help you determine which option offers the best audio quality, convenience, and ease of use for your unique situation.
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Frequently asked questions
All modern motherboards have an integrated sound card, so yes, custom-built PCs come with sound.
No, motherboards do not come with speakers. You will need to plug in headphones or speakers.
If you are planning to use the monitor's built-in speakers, you do not need a sound card. It is a personal decision based on whether you feel the built-in audio is good.
Some good speakers to use with your PC include the Logitech Z313 2.1 surround sound setup and the Logitech 2 speakers and a subwoofer for $30.
Most gamers use headphones or a headset with a microphone.
