USB Headphones = Increased CPU Usage?

I heard that the issue with USB headsets is that they run primarily software-based, and as a result rely heavily on the CPU to do all of the work with the sound decoding, etc. Is this true?

Now if it is, how much of a toll does a USB headset take on a CPU, compared to an integrated audio chip?

I'm trying to find an audio solution for my laptop. The onboard sound really doesn't cut it for me and has slight issues with skipping and such during games, like CS:S. I was considering a USB headset, either the Steelsound 5H or a pair of LTB 5.1's, but I am curious about the 'rumour' of CPU usage. Another option I have is to get an external USB sound card, but I'm not sure how that will turn out either. It would also require me to get a headset on top of that.

So my main questions are: what kind of setup would be most worth the money? And is the CPU usage really a concern, especially in comparison to an integrated audio chip or an external USB sound card?

Thanks.

 

Yes, it does take a toll. USB takes processor power, and it's communicating to the audio chip device in the headphones, which also takes power to run, and quite probably will offload most of it's processing to the CPU, because that's cheaper for the manufacturer.

 

What kind of CPU are you plannin on runnng it on?

 

Core Duo T2400 in my Asus W3J.

So would my best bet be to get an external USB sound card like the SB Audigy 2 NX?

Oh, and since the USB headphones are mainly software driven and have their own audio chips, this means that if I were to use one the problems I experience as a result of my onboard audio would be alleviated, right?

 

Most likely. USB headsets show up as separate audio devices within Windows, with their own drivers (Windows native) and control panel volume adjustments.

 

Yeah, but you can switch main audio devices by Right clicking on the speaker -> adjust audio properties -> audio tab -> sound playback device. Just choose which device you want to use. and click ok

 

Me thinks it would be even better to get one on a PCMCIA card.

 

Yes, that would be ideal.
However, I don't have a PCMCIA slot; and there are no ExpressCard sound cards available yet I believe.

Hmm so I think if this is the case I should try my luck with a USB headset.
Thanks guys.

 

Personally I'd go with a USB sound card/headphone amp. Theres one on headphone.com(I'm at school and its blocked by the filter) But it costs about $200. I can personally say it has very good sound quality, its plug and play, and can also be used to amp up your MP3 players. I'll link you to it later tonight when I have access to the site.

 

Headphone Amp - $200
USB sound card - $50
Headphones worthy of an amp - $200

Hmm. Worth it?

 

Yeah, I don't know if you'll think its worth it, but I'm just letting you know that its out there. Well, here's the link. I haven't tried any other USB sound cards but this one I can say puts out very good quality sound, and it can double as a headphone amp. So if thats what your looking for here it is.
http://www.headphone.com/products/headphone-amps/the-mobile-line/headroom-total-bithead.php