Intel HD Audio vs Sound Blaster Extigy

I am wondering what is a better soundcard.
The built in Intel HD Audio soundcard or the Sound Blaster Extigy USB?
I am outputting to a Logitec Z5400 via the optical output of the extigy and the input of the Z5400.
Any help is greatly appreciated.
Thanks!

I have to agree but I doubt most people notice. Not a lot a audiophiles anymore. Intel HD specs are typical of a low costs digital to analog converter. You won't find many laptops that spend a lot on sound quality. Although their are a couple PC's that have certified sound with better sound cards. I would think your Macbook like mine has a optical digital connection through the audio jack. If you really want better D/A conversion you could buy a external D/A converter and connect through the optical output. Personally I use a pair of SkullCandy Hesh 2's and find the sound very good. I certainly have heard worse. At least S/N ratio is pretty good. Some laptops I have had in the past really had some nasty background hiss.

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