Windows® 98 Unleashed

Audio Hardware: What to Look for in a Sound Card

Technically, it isn't necessary to have a sound card installed on your system if all you want to do is play WAV files. (See “Installing the PC Speaker Driver” later in this chapter to learn how to set up your computer to play sounds without a sound card.) However, you definitely want to invest in some audio hardware if you need or want any of the following: high-quality audio, external speakers connected to your system, the ability to record sounds, audio compression, or MIDI support.

If you're in the market for a sound card, here are a few options and features to look for:

Compatibility: One of the most important considerations when buying a sound card is whether your applications will be able ...