Best Surround Internal Sound Cards of 2025

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 4, 2025

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Surround internal sound cards are a great way to enhance the audio experience on a computer. These devices are installed inside the computer and provide high-quality sound output for music, movies, and games. They offer multiple channels of sound, which means that users can enjoy a more immersive audio experience. Surround internal sound cards are compatible with a wide range of operating systems and can be used with a variety of audio software. They are also easy to install and use, making them a popular choice for computer enthusiasts who want to upgrade their audio capabilities.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Creative Sound Blaster Audigy FX PCIe 5.1 Internal Sound Card Cover #TOP 1
Creative Sound Blaster Audigy FX PCIe 5.1 Internal Sound Card
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Creative Sound Blaster Z SE Internal PCI-e Gaming Sound Card Cover #TOP 2
Creative Sound Blaster Z SE Internal PCI-e Gaming Sound Card
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Cuifati CMI8738 PCI Sound Card Cover #TOP 3
Cuifati CMI8738 PCI Sound Card
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Surround Internal Sound Cards

Creative Sound Blaster Audigy FX PCIe 5.1 Internal Sound Card

SB1570
Creative Sound Blaster Audigy FX PCIe 5.1 Internal Sound Card Cover
Creative Sound Blaster Audigy FX PCIe 5.1 Internal Sound Card with High Performance Headphone Amp for PCs

The Creative Sound Blaster Audigy FX PCIe 5.1 Internal Sound Card is an excellent choice to turn your PC into a cinematic entertainment system with its 5.1 surround sound. This sound card offers advanced audio processing with SBX Pro Studio, a suite of Sound Blaster audio processing technologies that allow you to bring the best out of your audio. It supports Windows 11, comes with both half-height and full-height brackets for most PC builds, and includes the Sound Blaster Audigy Fx Control Panel for full control of the SBX Pro Studio suite. It also features a 600 ohm headphone amp for high performance, studio-grade monitoring, and 106 SNR and 24-bit 192kHz DAC (Playback) and 96kHz ADC (Recording).

What We Like
Provides a 5.1 surround sound for a cinematic entertainment experience
Advanced audio processing with SBX Pro Studio to bring out the best in your audio
Compatible with Windows 11 and comes with both half-height and full-height brackets for most PC builds
Includes the Sound Blaster Audigy Fx Control Panel for full control of the SBX Pro Studio suite
Features a 600 ohm headphone amp for high performance, studio-grade monitoring

Creative Sound Blaster Z SE Internal PCI-e Gaming Sound Card

SB1500
Creative Sound Blaster Z SE Internal PCI-e Gaming Sound Card Cover
Creative Sound Blaster Z SE Internal PCI-e Gaming Sound Card and DAC, 24-bit / 192 kHz, 116 dB SNR, ASIO, 600Ω Headphones Amp, Mic EQ, Discrete 5.1 / Virtual 7.1, Supports Dolby Digital Live, DTS

The Creative Sound Blaster Z SE Internal PCI-e Gaming Sound Card provides up to 116 dB SNR at 24-bit / 192 kHz for impressive audio quality. With ASIO support, low-latency and high-fidelity audio is available even for recordings. SBX Gaming EQ Profiles are available for hot games, and the card is capable of immersive surround sound with support for 7.1 virtual on headphones and speakers alongside discrete 5.1 for speakers. Crystal Clear Communication is ensured with microphone EQ presets and CrystalVoice technology.

What We Like
Impressive audio quality
Low-latency and high-fidelity audio
Support for SBX Gaming EQ Profiles
Immersive surround sound with support for 7.1 virtual on headphones and speakers alongside discrete 5.1 for speakers
Crystal Clear Communication with microphone EQ presets and CrystalVoice technology
#TOP 3

Cuifati CMI8738 PCI Sound Card

Cuifati
Cuifatin1yrpv6ozq
Cuifati CMI8738 PCI Sound Card Cover
PCI Sound Card, Internal Audio Karte Stereo Surround CMI8738 Sound Card,PCI-E Express 4.1 Sound Card 4 Port Surround Sound Card,for Computer Desktop

The Cuifati Sound Card features the advanced CMI/HT8738 chip, providing an impressive signal-to-noise ratio of 120dB. This ensures high-quality audio playback and recording, allowing you to enjoy crystal-clear sound. With its PCI plug-and-play design, you can easily install it in your desktop computer. The card supports 4-channel surround sound output, enhancing your gaming and movie experiences with immersive audio. Additionally, it is compatible with various sound effects technologies, making it versatile for different audio applications.

What We Like
High-quality audio output
Easy installation
Immersive surround sound
Versatile sound effects support
#TOP 4

VBESTLIFE CMI8738 PCI Sound Card

CMI8738
VBESTLIFE CMI8738 PCI Sound Card Cover
CMI8738 PCI Sound Card, PCI Sound Card Channel 4.1 for Computer Desktop Internal Audio Karte Stereo Surround

The VBESTLIFE PCI Sound Card is equipped with a high-performance CMI/HT8738 chip, delivering an impressive 120dB signal-to-noise ratio for clear audio. Its plug-and-play interface allows for easy installation, enabling full-duplex playback and recording to enhance your audio experiences. With support for 4-channel surround sound, you can enjoy an immersive listening experience while gaming or watching movies. Additionally, this sound card is compatible with various audio technologies, ensuring that you can enjoy rich, spatial sound effects from your favorite applications.

What We Like
High signal-to-noise ratio
Easy installation
4-channel surround sound
Supports multiple audio technologies
#TOP 5

Tonysa PCI Sound Card CMI8738

Tonysa
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Tonysa PCI Sound Card CMI8738 Cover
Tonysa PCI Sound Card 4.1 Channel Computer Desktop Built-in Sound Card Internal Audio Card Stereo Surround CMI8738 Support Duplex Playback and Recording

The Tonysa PCI Sound Card offers versatile audio capabilities for your computer. With support for music synthesis and traditional sound card functions, you can enjoy full-duplex playback and recording, making it ideal for both music enthusiasts and professionals. It features four-channel stereo sound, enhancing your listening experience with immersive surround sound. Additionally, its compatibility with various sound effects, including DirectSound 3D, allows you to enjoy a rich audio environment. The card's high signal-to-noise ratio ensures clear sound quality, making it a great addition to any desktop setup.

What We Like
Full duplex playback and recording
Four-channel surround sound
High sound quality
Compatible with various sound effects
Plug-and-play convenience
#TOP 6

axGear PCI-E 5.1 Audio Card

AUDIO-PCI-E
axGear PCI-E 5.1 Audio Card Cover
axGear PCI Express PCI-E 5.1 Ch 6 Channel PCIE Audio Digital Sound Card Adapter New

The axGear Audio Card delivers an impressive audio experience that can rival what you find in movie theaters. With 46-channel digital sound, you can enjoy a rich and immersive listening experience. This card also allows you to customize your Internet audio by utilizing EAX audio technology, enhancing the overall quality of sound while you stream. Additionally, it provides compelling 3D audio, making it ideal for gaming and movies. You can connect multiple speakers for a surround sound experience, truly transforming your audio setup into a home theater.

What We Like
High-quality audio experience
Customizable Internet audio
Immersive 3D sound
Supports multiple speakers
#TOP 7

VBESTLIFE Stereo Desktop Audio Card

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VBESTLIFE Stereo Desktop Audio Card Cover
Stereo Desktop Audio Card , Computer Surround Sound Card , Support 7 ,Vista ,XP 32 ,64 bi , Suitable for Home Theater , Large Scale 3D Games

The VBESTLIFE Audio Card enhances your entertainment experience by delivering immersive surround sound and crystal-clear audio quality. With its advanced noise balance function, you can enjoy uninterrupted sound whether you’re powering on or off your computer. It features a 6-channel output, allowing you to connect various speakers for a fully enveloping audio experience, perfect for home theaters and large-scale 3D games. Plus, the built-in CMI8738 5.1 audio chip ensures compatibility with popular audio effects, making your gaming and music sessions more engaging and dynamic.

What We Like
Surround sound experience
Noise elimination feature
6-channel output
Compatible with audio effects
#TOP 8

Serounder 120dB PCI Sound Card

S erounder
Serounderrx8zudy3cq
default
Serounder 120dB PCI Sound Card Cover
Sound Card,120dB PCI Plug and Play Sound Card Channel 4.1 for Computer Desktop Internal Audio Karte Stereo Surround CMI8738

The Serounder Sound Card uses the advanced CMI/HT8738 chip, delivering an impressive signal-to-noise ratio of 120dB. This ensures you'll enjoy crystal-clear audio for both playback and recording. With its PCI plug-and-play design, setup is hassle-free, allowing you to connect and start using it almost instantly. The card supports 4-channel surround sound output, enhancing your gaming and movie experiences by creating immersive audio environments. Additionally, it is compatible with advanced sound technologies like DirectSound 3D and A3D, providing you with versatile audio options for all your multimedia needs.

What We Like
High signal-to-noise ratio
Easy plug-and-play setup
Supports 4-channel surround sound
Compatible with advanced sound technologies
#TOP 9

StarTech.com 7.1 Surround Sound Card

PEXSOUND7CH
Green
StarTech.com 7.1 Surround Sound Card Cover
StarTech.com 7.1 Channel Sound Card - PCI Express - 24-bit - 192KHz - SPDIF Digital Optical and 3.5mm Analog Audio (PEXSOUND7CH)

The StarTech 7.1 Sound Card enhances your computer's audio experience by adding high-fidelity digital optical surround sound. With its PCI Express interface, you can easily install it for a seamless upgrade. The card supports 24-bit audio at 192KHz, ensuring you enjoy rich, detailed sound quality. This means whether you're gaming, watching movies, or listening to music, you'll experience immersive audio that brings your entertainment to life. The versatile design includes both SPDIF digital optical and 3.5mm analog audio outputs, making it adaptable for various audio setups.

What We Like
High-fidelity sound quality
Easy PCI Express installation
Supports multiple audio formats
Immersive surround sound
#TOP 10

GODSHARK PCIe 5.1 Sound Card

GODSHARK PCIe 5.1 Sound Card Cover
GODSHARK PCIe Sound Card, 5.1 Internal Sound Card for PC Windows 8 7 with Low Profile Bracket, 3D Stereo PCI-e Audio Card, CMI8738 Chip 32/64 Bit Sound Card PCI Express Adapter

The GODSHARK Sound Card transforms your PC into a home theater system with its 5.1 surround sound capability, enhancing your audio experience. It features a low-profile bracket, making it ideal for compact 2U cases. With its built-in 16-bit multimedia digital signal editing decoder, you can enjoy high-quality audio processing, recording, and playback. Additionally, it supports various sound technologies, ensuring compatibility with older and newer versions of Windows. This sound card is designed to elevate your entertainment experience, providing immersive audio that makes movies, games, and music come alive.

What We Like
5.1 surround sound
Low-profile design
High-quality audio processing
Supports various Windows versions
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do you need a sound card for surround sound?

To experience “true” surround sound, you'll need a sound card that can output digital sound via an optical or coaxial audio cable. For some users, this may require an upgrade, but it's an important thing to have if you're going to spend top dollar for a 5.1 surround sound system.

2. Are sound cards obsolete?

For years, getting a dedicated sound card for your PC was a given because it was the only way to get quality sound. Modern PCs, however, have good audio hardware built into their motherboards. But dedicated sound cards still exist.

3. Does 7.1 need a sound card?

You will not need to purchase a separate sound card for your gaming headsets unless you are choosing to use high fidelity audiophile headphones as a gaming headset. The integrated sound card on your motherboard will most likely support up to 7.1 surround sound and function well for gaming.

4. Do you need an internal sound card?

Technically, a sound card is an optional component but a necessary one if you want to hear sound from your PC on wired headphones or speakers (just like an external DAC), or plug in a mic with an analog output.

Editor's Notes

During our surround internal sound card research, we found 24 surround internal sound card products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 35,603 customer reviews through our big data system to write the surround internal sound cards list. We found that most customers choose surround internal sound cards with an average price of $21.65.

The surround internal sound cards are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of surround internal sound cards, including Creative, Cuifati, VBESTLIFE, Tonysa, axGear. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.