Best soundcard to use for music + gaming?

[SanjeevPNE]

I am looking at getting the Marantz PM6002 amp, which I am going use to power two Mordaunt-Short 902i speakers. However, I am not sure which soundcard I should be using to help increase the quality of the sound. My PC currently has onboard sound (my mobo is not a top one, from about 5 years ago so its not the best), and I think that to increase the quality of the sound and get the best from my setup, I will need a new soundcard.

So, what do you suggest? I have been looking at the Auzentech X-Fi Prelude, and the Asus Xonar. Are these two generally accepted as the best for my needs?

Thanks.

[ukle]

Generally yes if you are after sound card suitable for gaming that works well with a Amp 5.1/7.1 system.

Thing is though you say you have a 5 year old motherboard. If so what type of gaming do you do? As one of the cards that only supports EAX 2 might be good enough for your needs.