3Q's: Windows 8 Pro, Audio Codec, & Internal Keyboard Problem

I have 3 questions that I'm just seeking other's opinions on.

1. What is everyone's experience with Windows 8 on the P150EM or similar models? I've used and tested all 3 different previews on my old Dell laptop. There are definitely things I've liked and disliked about it. Currently I run Windows 7 Professional and do use Windows LIVE as my main email, calendar, contacts, etc. (Other devices I use are an Xbox 360 and Windows Phone 7). I love Windows 7, but an upgrade to 8 for $40 has piqued my interest and just wondering if it might be worth it. I will say, I do not like the Metro UI on a laptop (as compared to phone and gaming console).

2. Recommended alternatives for audio? I am a bit of an audiophile. I have a cheap surround sound system for my room which sounded great on my 4 year old Dell, but I just cannot use it Clevo since it sounds so distant and empty. I use Sennheiser PC 350's for gaming, skyping, and sometimes music. I use Sennheiser CX 275s for a more mobile solution when listening to music. I can't really notice the lack of quality on the 350's but I know it is there. I do notice the lack of quality with the in ear headphones. I'm assuming a USB sound card is the best solution since it doesn't use the ones built into the laptop (or so I assume). I'm only looking for a stereo solution. So far I've noticed the Turtle Beach Amigo II, ASUS Xonar, and Creative X-Fi Go. Any recommendations as to which or another alternative? Will this fix my issue? I also own an Astro Mixamp. Will using the Digital Audio (TosLink) out fix this issue as well? (that would be a non-portable option of course).

3. My built in keyboard has some key pressing issues. I received the laptop back in September but I am finally starting to get annoyed by it. My 'Q' key requires a very heavy depress to activate, often requiring me to go back when typing because I missed it and requiring holding it for a second till it activates. Also, 'Caps Lock' requires just as heavy a press and sometimes my space bar misses. The space bar misses more when one of my friends who has a lighter touch uses it. He finds no other issue with the keyboard other than the other two I've mentioned. What should I do? Should I contact Sager (the reseller I purchased from)?

Thanks everyone for your help!

 

Windows 8 is great. Everything is synced across all your devices now. Xbox, PC and your Phone/Tablet. Use Classic Shell if you don't want to use the Metro UI on your PC. That will boot into the desktop directly for you, and it's fast and best of all free. The menu works fine and you can customize it's appearance etc. I haven't had any issues with any games or drivers or hardware. I use Comodo CIS 6 for my internet security, that works great. Lightweight and compatible with Windows 8.

As for Audio, just depends on what you want to spend. Under $50? More than $100? More than $200? For under $50 just get the Asus Xonar U3. Is this audio for home or just for on the go? If for home, I suggest getting a desktop solution. Like the O2+DAC solution or something similar. NWavguy's blog will explain more what you want to look for in an audio device. On what is BS marketing and what isn't. That's the problem in Audio, most of it is just marketing BS. Gotta find the device that just provides clean, quality audio without any BS.

If your keyboard has issues, contact your reseller. Could be that you have a defective keyboard. Tell them your Q key is not working. But before that, look up how to take off the keyboard and reseat the keyboard cables, make sure the cable is in good condition and seated properly.