Humm,
The more circuts a sound signal has to go thru of course delays the signal somewhat. So, if you have an external device hooked to your computer it would, of course, delay the signal somewhat.

Over the years I have worked on, repaired, and assembled electronic devices. I assembled 2 Color Television Sets in my time. In the Old Tube Circuts, Television sets used a delay line to allow the color and video to reach the picture tube at the same time. The Video was delayed one micro second by using a delay line. Now a television set had more complex circits than a basic audio system. So, without testing a sound card for performance one would not know how well a particular one works. Electronic Components are pretty standard and of high quality for the most part. I doubt any manufacture of computers, even budget ones would put in inferior parts as good stuff is readly available. I think a lot of people buy things that look good but really are no better than what was provided.

Anyone here tested replacement sound cards for performance? Any Test Results you have read? In the old days all sorts of electronic equipment was tested and the results published in Audio Magazines. But, I say again, what your computer most likely will do all that you need. Of course if you need more than one imput an outboard devise is OK. Remember, the more things you have in the signal chain, the more something can go wrong.

Last edited by Ray E. Strode; 10/02/11 07:19 PM.
Ray E. Strode