The Successor to AC'97: Intel High Definition Audio

An anonymous reader writes "A few days back Intel announced the name to its previously dubbed 'Azalia' next-generation audio specification due out by midyear, under royalty-free license terms. The Intel High Definition Audio solution will have increased bandwidth that allows for 192 kHz, 32-bit, multi-channel audio and uses Dolby Pro Logic IIx technology 'which delivers the most natural, seamless and immersing 7.1 surround listening experience from any native 2-channel source'. The architecture is designed on the same cost-sensitive principles as AC'97 and will allow for improved audio usage and stability."

Comments

Can you recommend some computer speakers?

[MichaelCrawford]

I'm looking for new computer speakers for listening to music.

In particular, I'm looking for stereo, not surround sound - for playing CDs, mp3s and oggs. I'm also looking for speakers that have excellent audio fidelity when played softly.

I asked about this on alt.music.mp3 and so far the best recommendation is I think the Logitech Z-2200. But these are very high power speakers (200 watts) - I will never turn them up that loud.

The other suggestion that makes a lot of sense to me is to use regular stereo speakers hooked up to a conventional audio amp. That's what I'm thinking of doing now, as I have a good amp that I'm not using right now.