"Heinz Kiosk" wrote in message


So... is this (surprising result to me) what the experts out there
would expect, and how much better are the more expensive PC cards eg
RME 968pad, lynxone, lynxtwo? In a permanent setup I would buy one of
the more expensive cards if they are audibly superior to the m-audio
2496. Or would I be better off taking a digital output from the 2496
card and using a separates DAC?

Welcome to the world of diminishing returns.

Yes, the AP2496 is a credible performer, particularly for consumers.
However, the conclusion that 10 times better technical performance (LynxTWO)
would sound better at all, is unwarranted by the relevant facts about human
perception.