External sound card needed...

[Silvermirage]

I just bought Shure E5C earbuds for my mp3 playler, but I want to use them with my laptop as well. I just happen to use my laptop like a desktop most of the time, so I want to get some USB/firewire audio card connected to it. What are my best options within a reasonable price range considering I just went $350 out on a pair of earbuds.

*edit*

I've seen some things about Creative's Audigy NX and I was wondering if M-Audio had a better counterpart worth buying. If there is something totally different, I'm willing to consider it.

P.S. The integrated sound in my e1705 is nasty to listen to, so please help asap.

 

[Mister X]

I would go with an Alien DAC but that is a DIY project and you would also need an amp so....

http://www.myexposition.com/diy/usbdac/overview.html

 

[jaffy]

The Headroom Bithead is a really good all in one solution IMO Not the best amp or DAC by far, but it's great considering the size and price.

http://www.headphone.com/products/headphone-amps/the-mobile-line/headroom-total-bithead.php