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The sound cards that run $175 and above usually have 5.1 and EAX surround sound support. They can easily support three to five speakers; creating clear, beautiful sound, and realistic sound effects. Some of the cards in the $250 and up range offer 7.1 surround sound capabilities. Determine what your specific uses will be. Different sound cards have different capabilities. If you're going to do multi-track recording and MIDI; then you need to get a sound card that is specifically designed to support these two programs and inputs. Another thing to consider when you're choosing a sound card is whether your computer is strong enough to use the sound card you've chosen. Your computer must have the memory and the power to support whatever programs you install on it. If you have a lot of graphics design programs on your computer; even if it's newer; it won't be strong enough for a high end sound card. Music and graphic creation software programs are simply the largest types of programs on the market today. And they both need a powerful computer. A standard home computer cannot support strong instances of both types of programs. Older computers will usually not support high end sound cards either. They are just not strong enough. Sometimes the easiest way to purchase a sound card is to get one along with a package of other software that compliments it. There are many packages that come bundled like this. This will leave the guesswork out of buying sound cards for you. A bundle will also contain music creation or playback software that will work weil for your specific system. Many times bundles are cost effective and larger electronics stores will put them on sale seasonally. Without a sound card; your computer will not play sound effectively. Every computer comes with a basic one. Sometimes you have to upgrade to meet your needs. But, when you do this; then you are making your sound and music computer experience much more worthwhile. The best way to purchase a sound card is to do enough research before you go shopping. Learn about at least 5 different kinds of sound cards and determine which ones meet your needs. Don't be afraid to call a few stores and get recommendations from people that work around sound cards all day.