soundcards tend to be a bit more airy and detailed.
i think this is what Bala has experinced
(P.S i have too)
However the preference for dac's comes in because they offer the wieght and smoothness in the music which SC's rarely do
some so called audiophiles call this "listenability"
i have found this to be the major difference between SC's and dacs when compared seperately
from my limited experince and budgets i havent heard either which offers both qualities
its a personal preference
depending upon your taste and the flavour your amp and speakers add ( if they do add any that is)
This is a major requirement for me. Before I go out and buy the Xonar - can somebody comment of whether the Xonar sound offers the weight and body to sound and vocals? Else I will take the external DAC route.
Edit: Can the local Beresford owners (7520 or Caiman) confirm that it offers weight body and lushness to the sound.
TIA
Regards