Gizmo

By Andy Walker, Cyberwalker Media Syndicate

It's quite amazing that sound on a computer rivals most stereos these days. The latest entrant into the game is the Sound Blaster Audigy from Creative Labs.

The new sound card is an audiophile's dream. The 24-bit adapter generates sound comparable, and I might argue even better, than a high-end stereo system.

Gamers will love it for it's 3D environmental sound capability that allows for natural sounding layered audio effects in video games. An integrated IEEE 1394 port on the adapter (better known as Apple's FireWire technology) will also please video camera fanatics because it allows them to move video data into a computer at speeds of 400 megabits per second.

While this data transfer technology is superior to the more common USB ports on most computers, it has been lagging as a popular connector because it's not standard on most systems. It's inclusion on the Audigy card brings it into the mainstream.

The card comes in four models including two with additional control consoles and a remote. The card series come with a great software package including a tool to that helps digital music lovers rip songs from vinyl without the pops and buzzes.

One note of caution, the gadget requires a confident computer user to install it.

More info: http://www.soundblaster.com

Buy it: In Canada at Future Shop, A&B Sound, CompuSmart and most computer retailers. In the U.S. at most computer retailers including Staples, Circuit City and Best Buy.

Online, buy it through:
Sound Blaster Audigy 2 - Platinum (Amazon, $199 US)