Yes, you're right about the conversion process using the most processing power. I also listen and record Internet Radio while I'm on my PC. This program is just below Firefox in memory usage.
I also agree that the video card is the next component to choose.
I realize this is a budget PC, that's the reason I bought it. Who can go wrong for $398.00? I can experiment to my heart;s content on a machine like this.
I do plan on building my own in the future.
BTW, it is upgradeable with
One PCI Express ×16
Two PCI-E ×1
One PCI Conventional
There are many different models in the ET series. The ET1331G-03w and ET1331G-05w are memory upgradeable.
Take a look at E-Machines official site here:
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Regarding audiophile components, my present system's video card is connected to the HDMI switcher built into my Marantz
Link Removed due to 404 Error My sound card's optical connection is also connected to the Marantz. When listing to Internet radio, sound goes through my Klipsch front speakers and Velodyne sub. When playing DVDs, it runs through 5.1 channel (DTS also).
I bought my first stereo system in 1974 which was a Pioneer "quadrophonic" system. That lasted about as long as the Laser Disk.
I don't have the two rear speakers yet. I don't mention this to brag, it's just that my nephew has his own Audio-Visual home installation company and I get my components at his cost + 10%.
Man, what a markup on components and speakers. TV's have basically no markup at all