Conclusion

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The cards reviewed here are all different and the only thing they have in common is their USB interface. First, the Creative Audigy 2NX has offers better overall performance, but at the cost of higher computer requirements and a higher price. So it is strictly for those who want the best and can pay for it. The other Creative card, the MP3+, is also special in that it is the only card here which has only 5.1 outputs. If you don't mind just a stereo output, it is a very good choice for its performance and its connection capacities. In fact, it is a well nigh perfect audio interface for those who want to add digital links and a line-in to a laptop for not too much money.

For games or DVD viewing, the Hercules Muse Pocket is very attractive due to its simplicity and performance, but also because of its price. Its natural rival is the Terratec Aureon USB, which performs better on sound and has digital connections. However, its appeal is disadvantaged by its high price, which is more than compensated by a wide range of software that comes with it. The Hercules Muse Pocket has everything needed for DVD viewing and even lets you do it without any installation on a computer running WindowsXP. The Philips Aurilium's audio performance disappointed, which was much inferior to what 24 bit converters had led us to expect. It did, however, give us a nice surprise in games and DVD play. It is a good choice for those who focus on these uses.

Price US Europe
Creative Sound Blaster MP3+ $39 59 €
Creative Audigy 2 NX $129 149 €
Hercules Muse Pocket $69 59 €
Philips PSC805 Aurilium $99 99 €
Terratec Aureon USB $119 119 €

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