Sound in Dell?

Hey all, after finding out that the "Integrated Sound Blaster® Audigy™ HD Software Edition" feature in dell notebooks is only a driver, I was wondering if it's worth they buy (hey it's $20, almost 20% of what windows costs!)?
And what is your overall experience with the soundquality of Dell Inspiron E1505 or E1705 notebooks? Is it fun at all to watch a movie / play a game / listen to music? Will the basic integrated onboard thingy do, or do I need the $20 driver? Can I purchase/download the driver later and install just any regular driver? Can I buy a -real- audio card later? I'm particulary thinking of the E1705 Inspiron series, if that makes any difference..

thanks for your input!

 

Its actually software, not a driver. You still have to use the sigmatel drivers in order to have sound.

As for if it is worth it or not, that is a user preference. Personally I like mine, but i actually have a sound card, so my opinion doesn't count.

 

This actually has been talked about quite a bit on various other threads. For many people the software upgrade has in fact made their sound louder and more dynamic even from the notebook speakers. What I have also heard is since it is only software you can purchase it off the the Audigy site later on for $20. You can always purchase the separate sound card anytime from other sites, this is the ExpressCard Sound Card which is a hardware upgrade. I would wait until you get your system and if you decide to get the software upgrade then do so independently, not with Dell since you'll be paying $5 more depending what system you configure.

 

ok thanks guys! got it^^