All new PCs are capable of producing sound but it's fair to say that not all sound is equal. For a better experience you have to upgrade, and Creative has just launched the daddy of sound cards with its Audigy 2 ZS Platinum Pro.

First, it's THX certified. THX is a sound specification system, developed by George Lucas's Lucasfilm, that means audio equipment meets stringent sound standards. Secondly, the Audigy 2 supports every surround sound format under the sun and will happily power even 7.1 speakers. This brings out the best in DVD movies and new games alike. However, you'll have to invest in a hefty set of speakers to notice the difference.

The Audigy 2 is more than simply a great sound card that supports a load of standards though. Creative has also taken care to develop software to take advantage of this. Primarily this is its Enhanced Audio Extensions, which add depth to games that support the technology. Simply put, caverns sound more cavernous, enclosed spaces sound more enclosed and underwater scenes sound, well, more watery.

The musician hasn't been left out either, thanks to the external box that plugs into the back of the Audigy. This has lots of digital, MIDI and analogue inputs, to help turn your PC into a complete multi-track home recording studio. With the bundled copy of Cubasis, you don't need to rush out and buy additional software to take advantage of it.

Finally, this box has an infrared port. When used with the provided remote control you can adjust the sound, play CDs and MP3s, and even shut the system down.

At £200 it's a fairly big investment but Creative also sells a standard version of the product that dispenses with the external box and costs just £100. Even so, it still seems like quite a lot of money to replace any existing sound you have. So unless you use you use your PC's sound a lot and you're willing to shell out for a good set of speakers, then the upgrade is a difficult one to justify.

Contact: Creative
http://uk.europe.creative.com