X-Fi Deal: Go or no-go?

Scrublet

I'm definitely building a new computer in June. I'm going high-end on a lot of shit. One of the things I need is a kick ass sound card, both for gaming and basic music recording. I say basic because I'm not looking for recording studio sound cards (so don't suggest any, please.)

I've been using an Audigy 2 ZS Platinum and have been liking it, but I'm ready for an upgrade in the new computer. I plan on getting the Fatal1ty Platinum (with the X-RAM and the 5.25" internal port box thingy). I remember when the X-Fis came out there was some consternation about snap crackle pop, etc. I can see on newegg right now that (with a $50 mail-in rebate) this card is currently $130:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16829102014

Question: Pick it up? Is something else worth my time?

I thought about it; I should clarify. This computer is going to be plugged into a 50" HDTV, and soundwise will be plugged into a receiver connected to a Klipsch 5.1 setup (to start with). It will be running Vista Ultimate 64-bit with 4+ GB DDR2.

Glocjt

I dunno about this particular model, but I have an X-fi Xtreme Music in my current PC. Much . I think it helps that while I'm no audiophile, I do enjoy good sound quality when I can get it.

TychoCelchuuu

Anything above the X-Treme gamer is a waste since X-RAM is just a joke.

Deusfaux

the ones with the breakout box are above the gamer one - if you'd like the inputs and outputs they provide.

that said, i think creative's drivers are absolutely horrid, and just went through a big ordeal they caused.

i ended up using youp pax drivers hacked by some other dude who actually knows what he's doing (still based on creative code though)

id say its a good card for gaming, but if you didnt game too heavily, onboard should be good enough.

OremLK

I just use an Audigy SE, and it's fine for my purposes; and I used to do a lot of sound engineering-type stuff. I don't see the point in spending over $100 on a sound card unless you're buying a pro-quality recording card with multiple inputs and everything.

Scrublet

I am building this computer as a gaming-only platform connected to an HDTV via HDMI. So gaming is one reason for the card.

I also play a lot of bass, and use the inputs to record ideas as they strike me quickly and easily. I also need fiberoptic so I can run the sound through to the receiver.