Sound Card Problem

LAST EDITED ON Sep-07-01 AT 04:32 PM (GMT)
Hello, I am using P4 1.5ghz. I have problem with my ESS Allegro 4 Channel PCI sound card. I try to connect my Sony Hi-fi to my PC.But the output sound very blurr and low quality. I am sure my hi-fi is no problem because it work fine with my old Creative SB 16. Please help me.. it is my sound card problem or my window driver problem? I am using Win Me.

1. RE: Sound Card Problem
lbyard Sep-07-01 06:47 PM
In response to message 0

If the sound is OK (is it?) with the PC speakers, it is probably an impedance mismatch between the sound card and the Hi Fi. That is, the sound card is not connected to correct jack on the Hi Fi, or the sound is being taken out of the wrong jack on the sound card. Look in the manuals for the specifications and try to select a high impedance output on the sound card and high impedance input on the Hi Fi. The numbers can vary significantly, but you do not want to connect a high impedance (thousands of ohms) to a low impedance (say, 4 to 16 ohms). Larry

2. RE: Sound Card Problem
dkny Sep-07-01 07:50 PM
In response to message 1

the sound is OK with normal Speaker,but not ear phone. Isit because the sound card output ohm too low ?

3. RE: Sound Card Problem
lbyard Sep-07-01 08:18 PM
In response to message 2

Probably. There are high and low impedance ear phones, most are high. Larry

4. RE: Sound Card Problem
dkny Sep-08-01 06:52 AM
In response to message 3

So how can i solve my sound card problem ? I am sure my cable and hi-fi have no problem.

6. RE: Sound Card Problem
lbyard Sep-09-01 08:43 PM
In response to message 4

By matching impedances. One cannot change that fact. Have you examined the specifications to see if they match or what output/input combination might match? Your assumption about the cable and Hi Fi seems good (but something could have been broken in the process), considering the fact that the other card worked with the Hi Fi and your new card works with the PC speakers. Your Hi Fi and cable “liked” the output of your old card. They do not like the output of your new one. So, you have to use a different output on the card, a different input on the Hi Fi, or a different combination on both devices (or replace the card or the Hi Fi). To do that with the minimum amount guesswork/trial and error, you need to look at and compare the numbers in the specifications (or hire a “local” expert--or send me the specs). I believe I have covered all of the choices except not use the Hi Fi and reinstall the old sound card. Larry