ext. sound card laptop to stereo system

[leckielou]

Hi. I have a brand new laptop ASUS K400 series. I am playing my music (downlloaded to external HD) and connected to my stereo sound system. The sound quality is terrible.

I have done same connection to my home computer and the sound is excellent. So I know it is the laptop at fault.

I have been told laptops are not made for connection to stereo sound systems and I should buy a good quality external USB sound card.

I sing professionally and need excellent quality music coming from my speakers
.
I am stunned when I surf the net for ext. sound cards, I don't know WHAT to look for.
Can you give me good advice as to a certain product or description I should be looking for?

Thank you Alexis

[osprey4]

Hi, Alexis:

Welcome to TechIMO.

An external USB sound interface is going to allow most of the heavy lifting to be done outside your system, and you'll end up with far better sound than the crappy analog mini-plug can deliver. I suggest you look no further than the E-MU 0404 USB. This is definitely a professional quality product with both input and output options galore for about $200. I got this gadget for my son last Xmas and it's simply amazing.

[leckielou]

Dear Osprey4
thank you so much. I will have to source the cheapest agent for purchase cause I live in the Land Down Under
Regards Alexis