Is HD audio any good in a low-end desktop?

stf92 · 02-16-2013, 04:24 AM

Hi:

I mean, I think it is 32 bits per sample. Now suppose I playing a 24-bit file. What do I get at the output jack? Real 24-bit quality analog audio?

EDIT: I think the way I stated this can be misunderstood. So, assume my file is 32-bit and the question is "Real 32-bit quality analog audio?".

jefro · 02-16-2013, 02:58 PM

24 bit will always be 24 bit.

You can't fix a scratched album and you can't fix a 24 bit sample to a higher bit sample. There are ways to cheat it or interpolate it. Some cd makers are trying to fool the public with some so called up conversion with the K2HD format. They should be sued.

I don't like any digital representation, a real analog system is the best.

Saying that, it may depend on your ears. In simple play back, a low end system may do OK on 24 bit. The devices after the app would be so low end it wouldn't matter.

TobiSGD · 02-16-2013, 03:44 PM

Onboard audio got much better in the last 10 years, if you are not really audiophile (and don't have a high quality audio system) you won't have any problems with the quality.

stf92 · 02-16-2013, 05:35 PM

Is there any amplification after the DAC within the onboard sound card? If so, this amplifier stage should be of a very high quality, a rather improbable fact.

TobiSGD · 02-16-2013, 06:13 PM

The DAC provides standard line-out voltages, so that amplification is not needed, AFAIK.
Besides that, if you want to have very high quality you have to pay the price for it. Onboard sound is not very high quality, but good enough for most people and purposes.

stf92 · 02-16-2013, 07:25 PM

I think this is where I should have started with. What happens after the DAC. So, I have now my question answered in full. Thanks.