The Best External Soundcard For 2024
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: DUKABEL USB to 3.5mm Jack Audio Adapter, USB Chip External Soundcard
DUKABEL USB to 3.5mm Jack Audio Adapter, USB Chip External Soundcard offers a slim and compact design that fits in your pocket or bag so easily. This adapter is made with a special chip that allows you to use it on all devices, from laptops and tablets to smartphones, without having to worry about compatibility issues. Read Review
2. Best For The Price: Sound BlasterX G6 Hi-Res 130dB Gaming DAC, External USB Soundcard
Upgrade your games with the latest in-game audio processing technology. With the Sound BlasterX G6, you can enjoy a thrilling 7.1 Virtual Surround Sound experience and a discrete headphone amp to power your favorite pair of headphones. Read Review
3. Best Convenient: USB Soundcard, TechRise USB External Stereo Sound Adapter Splitter
TechRise USB External Stereo Sound Adapter Splitter is a flexible and powerful solution for your portable device needs. Great quality audio, easy to set up, and powerful features make this product essential for any computer user. Read Review
4. Best Connectivity: UGREEN USB to Audio Jack USB External Soundcard 3.5mm Audio Adapter
UGREEN USB to Audio Jack is a great portable sound card that connects your PC to your computer speakers, earphones, or any other 3.5mm audio device. With a smart chip, you can enjoy high-quality sound and music playback as well as recording. It is also compatible with all systems. Read Review
If you want to get the best recording quality possible out of your computer, investing in an external sound card is the way to go. A good soundcard will not only improve your in-game audio but also make it easier for you to record and produce high-quality audio.
It’s also a great way to add some extra oomph to your recordings as well as reduce any unwanted background noises that might be coming from your computer. In this guide, we’ll discuss the Best external soundcard on the market today and help you choose which one is right for you.
Our team had to focus on researching and sifting through many hours to get such results for readers. These studies are based on customer star reviews and interviews about their feelings when using the product. When it comes to finding the best external soundcard, we believe DUKABEL USB to 3.5mm Jack Audio Adapter, USB Chip External Soundcard is worth the product to buy. If you're looking for additional options and more in-depth advice, you may check out the following.
RELATED: Before we make some specific things, here is some information and explanation about best soundcard for music for your preference.
Our Top Picks
- Smart Chip: The usb external sound card is built-in with DUKABEL's exclusive advanced chip for the better listening experience. Efficiently Decoding the signal of sound, and optimizely amplifying the analog signal to make a much clear sound. For optimize experience, we recommend to use with DuKabel cables.
- Compact yet Durable: Usb to microphone jack adapter with premium metal casing and durable braided cord, ensuring a much longer lasting life. Much more durable than other plastic casing USB adapters. Comes with a 12-month free warranty.
- One for All Compatibility: Usb audio jack adapter support CTIA standards TRRS headsets and microphones. No system limitation. Support Windows 10/8.1/8/7/Vista/XP, Mac OS X, Linux, Google Chromebook, Windows Surface 3 pro, Raspberry Pi and PS4 PS5 etc.
- 2 in 1 Essential: DuKabel USB to aux adapter supports listening + speaking, dual functions. Easily adds a 3.5mm TRRS aux port (integrated microphone-in and audio out interface) to your devices. This stereo to usb adapter can work for your PC, PS4, PS5, Laptop, Desktop, and more. *DO NOT work for TV/Car/PS3/Truck etc.
- 0 to 1 Setup: The DuKabel USB audio adapter is super easy to setup. Simply plug and play. The USB port will be automatically recognized by system in seconds. No driver download required, no external power required.
- 7.1 VIRTUAL SURROUND SOUND AND DOLBY DIGITAL | Enjoy the latest in immersion technology with Dolby Digital decoding or Sound Blaster’s proprietary surround sound perfect for games and movies
- UPGRADE YOUR GAMES ON PS4, XBOX ONE, NINTENDO SWITCH, AND PC | Get immediate increased enjoyment over basic motherboard and controller audio! Apart from incredible audio quality, the Sound BlasterX G6 boasts gaming-centric features such as Sidetone volume control and easy-to-reach profile buttons
- DISCRETE HEADPHONE AMP | Custom-designed Xamp headphone amplifier features discrete components through all stages of amplification in a bi-amp design. Each audio channel is individually amplified to deliver a whole new level of pristine audio fidelity in an authentic, unaltered lossless model. The ultra-low 1 Ohm output impedance perfectly drives performance-grade sensitive 8W in-ear monitors all the way to studio-grade 600W headphones
- INDUSTRY-LEADING AUDIO PROCESSING TECHNOLOGY | Enjoy full audio customization and enhanced audio realism with immersive 7.1 surround virtualization, accurate cues, bass boost and in-game voice communication enhancements. It also has Scout Mode than enhances in-game audio cues, letting you hear your enemies before they hear you
- 130dB DNR, 32-bit 384kHz DAC Advanced 32-bit oversampled multi-bit modulator with mismatch shaping technology eliminates distortion, ensuring audio is streamed with the highest level of detail and fidelity
- MIXER FUNCTION: Multi-channel will bring you a “surround sound” experience. Mini LED and surround sound can improve the level of gaming audio. Microphone/Headphone mute function allows the headset and loudspeaker mode to switch freely providing 16 kinds of rhythmic pattern and 23 kinds of environment mode, without unplugging from the computer.
- OPERATIING SYSTEM: The external USB 2.0 sound card adapter can work with all major operation systems like Windows 98SE/ ME/ 2000/ XP/ Server 2003/ Vista/ Win 7/8/10, Linux, Mac OS, etc.
- ADJUSTABLE AUDIO SOUND: The volume of the output audio can be adjusted by the volume roller on the control panel. Adjust the appropriate sound volume according to your needs.
- NO DRIVER REQUIRED：Headset USB adaptor, international USB connector, no extra drivers are needed, easy to use, plug and play for instant audio playback. Lightweight and portable size make it convenient to take anywhere.
- 3.5mm JACK DEVICE: USB audio sound card, supports normal stereo, earphone, headphone, headset or microphone with 3.5mm jack, Raspberry Pi 2/3 Xbox PS4 Surface Tablet Laptop, especially for gaming headsets. International standard USB replaces traditional sound card. You can also use microphone and headphones together on iMac/Mac Mini devices with our product.
- USB External Sound Card: 2 in 1 USB audio adapter supports listening & speaking, easily adds a 3.5mm aux TRRS port (integrated audio-in and audio out interface) to your devices. Note: It does not work with headset with separated headphone and microphone 3.5mm audio port.
- Smart Chip: Built-in with advanced smart chip supports automatic recognition of CTIA and OMIP standard headsets, This USB to Audio jack efficiently decoding the signal of sound ensures the minimum distortion rate, offering you better listening experience.
- Superb Sound Quality: USB external sound adapter adopted Advanced C-Media IC technology for optimal sound quality and device performance. Which enables you to bypasses a broken sound card or audio jack of your computer to regain audio function.
- Compact and Portable: The Aux to USB is slim size with ultra compact design and durable aluminum housing, Plug and Play, no driver required & USB bus-powered. Note: This audio adapter works with 3.5mm TRRS headphones.
- Universal Compatibility: This external sound card can work with any standard USB Audio Class enabled system including Windows 10/8.1/8/7/Vista/XP, Mac OS X, Linux, and PS5 PS4, Google Chrome book, Windows Surface 3 pro, Raspberry Pi etc. Note: Does Not Work for TV or Car.
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![StarTech.com 7.1 USB Sound Card - External Soundcard]()
- UPGRADE YOUR PC SOUND: With support for analog and digital audio output for stereo to 7.1 channel audio applications, the bus-powered audio to USB adapter upgrades the existing integrated audio on a desktop or laptop computer; 1m USB Cable Included
- EASY INSTALLATION: The digital audio adapter is easy to install with plug and play support in Windows 7/8.1/10; The external sound card features easy-to-use volume controls and mute buttons; The audio outputs are selectable via the included software
- QUALITY AUDIO: Supports 44.1KHz and 48KHz sampling rates for analog playback and recording; SPDIF Digital output only supports 48KHz audio playback; SPDIF optical input passthrough supports up to two-channel audio at 48KHz
- 7.1 USB SOUND CARD: This External Sound Card adds up to 7.1 channels of audio through a single USB port to your computer; This sound card supports 7.1, 5.1 and 2 channel output using 3.5mm jacks, a headphone port, line-in and stereo microphone inputs
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![T10 External Soundcard, PHOINIKAS USB Audio Adapter]()
- MULTI-PORT SOUND CARD: PHOINIKAS external sound card is a sound card with audio chip, it has 6 ports, 3 of which are USB2.0 ports, and the other 3 are 3.5mm ports. Multiple ports can be plugged in at the same time, no additional adapters are required.
- STEREO SOUND ADAPTER: The External sound card has 360 ° stereo sound surround to prevent electromagnetic interference, and has stable and best sound quality. Ideal for Skype / ICQ / Google Hangouts / Team Speak, it is also suitable for operating a second source of speakers and headphones simultaneously.
- PERSONALIZED FUNCTION & 4 FEET CABLE: The sound card has a variety of sound effects, you can switch by "EQ", also has mini LED indicator, surround sound, unique volume control keys, microphone mute, speaker mute and volume up / down function keys, You can change traditional volume controls and increase the level of game audio. In addition, with a 4 feet cable, you can place your sound card anywhere.
- COMPATIBILITY: Compatible with all common systems, including Windows XP, 7, 8, 8.1, 10, Mac IOS, etc. At the same time, you can connect multiple USB devices or 3.5mm interface devices to PC, laptop, PS4, Xbox One, etc., such as keyboard, mouse, card reader, webcam, MP3 player, earphone, microphone, etc.
- PLUG & PLAY USB SOUND CARD: PHOINIKAS USB audio adapter can be used to replace a faulty sound card or audio port. Add a 3.5mm port to the computer through the USB port. You can connect devices with 3.5mm jacks /2.0 USB jacks through the USB interface: headphones, speakers, microphone or USB device. Plug and play, no driver required.
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![USB Sound Card Adapter BENGOO 7.1 Channel External Soundcard]()
- 【No drivers】USB sound card is easy to use, no extra drivers is needed. Plug and play for instant audio playback. Microphone/Headphone mute design makes the headset and speaker mode switch freely without unplugging anything from the computer. Output audio sound can be adjusted by the volume adjustment wheel.
- 【Operating system】The External USB 2.0 Sound Card Adapter can work with all major operation systems like Windows 98SE/ ME/ 2000/ XP/ Server 2003/ Vista/Windows 7, Linux, Mac OS, etc. Lightweight and portable size makes it convenient to take everywhere.
- 【Wide application】Designed for 3.5mm jack and virtual 7.1 channel devices like headphones, headset or microphones that stop working or have issues with output cutting in and out. USB headset adapter is also suitable for sound card in the computer/laptop/desktop that dying or losing connection with motherboard. You can also use mic and headphone together on iMac/Mac Mini devices with our product.
- 【Mixer function】Mixer Function can adjust the output electronically level. Functional keys including microphone-mute, speaker-mute and volume-up/down roller. The mini LED indicator and surround sound can improve the level of gaming audio. Two headset jacks with one microphone jack can satisfy all your needs for an usb external sound card adapter.
- 【Louder previous-sound】Louder the sound that computer cannot do by itself, create surround sound effect which will bring you fantastic feelings. USB audio adapter supports normal stereo, earphone, headphone, headset or microphone with 3.5mm jack, Raspberry Pi 2/3 Xbox PS4 Surface Tablet Laptop, especially for gaming headsets.
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![Micolindun External Soundcard USB Hubs Audio Adapter to USB Port]()
- 【PLUG AND PLAY】Plug and play, no drivers needed. Compatible with all the commonly used system including Windows XP, 7, 8, 8.1, 10 and Vista, Mac IOS systems.
- 【USB HUB FUNCTHION】Conventional external sound card will take one USB port, meanwhile Micolindun GM-280 expand one USB ports to two. The 2 USB ports are compatible with USB disk, hard disk, mouse, keyboard, laptop cooler, card reader, USB fan and other commonly used USB devices. Quick response, without delay.
- 【EASY TO CARRY】This little device with diameter of 5,5cm and lightweight of 100g can be easily put in your pocket or handbag without any burden.Frosted surface materialgive you a wonderful touch, the bright RED/BLUE light enhance the atmosphere of gaming.
- 【REPLACE FAULTYDEVICES】Perfect to replace a faulty sound card, damaged 3.5mm audio port, or a broken USB audio adapter. With textile flexible cable of 1.2m, you can put the sound card on your desk, so easily plug your devices without bending over.
- 【EXTERNAL SOUND CARD】Micolindun external sound card has its own audio chip, can turn one USB port to several 3.5mm ports, so can connect 3.5 mm audio devices like headphones, headset, speakers, microphone, etc. Support single plug and dual plug headphone at the same time, no adapter needed.
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![CableCreation USB Audio Adapter External Soundcard]()
- 【Warranty】Plug and play; USB bus-powered, no external power required. CableCreation provides 24-month product warranty and lifetime technical support backed by 24/7 friendly customer service.
- 【High Quality Sound】Built-in with HS-100B chip, 48K / 44.1KHz sampling rate for both Playback and Recording, Skype / Hangout / Live Games / TeamSpeak ; protects against electromagnetic interference and enjoy the stable and best sound quality.
- 【Audio Interface】Provides an alternative solution to a damaged sound card, allows you to get access to plug-n-play sound with your headphones; supports single pin TRRS earphone (with* microphone) and TRS earphone (without* microphone). NOTES: 1. EarPods were tested not* to support mic input with this adapter, however audio output functions and allows you to enjoy music, movies,etc; 2. Not working on most Car system or smart TV.
- 【Wide Compatibility】Support USB 2.0 Full Speed (12Mbps) Specification, compatible with PS4, Raspberry Pi, Surface Pro, MacBook Pro; Windows 7/8/8.1 /10 /XP/Vista, Mac OS X 8.6 or above, macOS, Linux and other mainstream systems. NOT WORKING ON PS3.
- 【Connectivity】CableCreation USB audio adapter adds a mono microphone-in (Pink one) and a stereo audio-out (Black one) port to your computer through a USB port, enables you to connect your existing headphones, headset, speakers, or microphone with 3.5mm jack to your PC, laptop, through a USB interface.
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![Creative Sound Blaster X4 Hi-Res 24bit/192kHz External Soundcard]()
- IMPROVED COMMUNICATION WITH SMARTCOMMS KIT AND CRYSTALVOICE - Features our SmartComms Kit, a suite of smart communication features that simplify the way you take work calls on Windows 10 platform. Turn on VoiceDetect to auto mute and unmute your mic, or get rid of static background noise in your own environment as well as the other parties' via our two-way noise cancellation feature NoiseClean. In tandem, CrystalVoice technology enhances voice for clear recordings and in-game communications
- 7.1 DISCRETE SURROUND WITH SUPER X-FI AND DOLBY DIGITAL LIVE - Supports up to 7.1 discrete and virtual surround with three types of surround sound delivery: 1. Super X-Fi technology that recreates the listening experience of a multi-speaker system in headphone, 2. Sound Blaster Surround Virtualization’s famed surround processing that is driven by algorithms that are capable of optimizing spatial information of incoming audio for a complete and immersive auditory experience, 3. Dolby Digital Live
- EASY ACCESS TO ALL CONTROLS - Pick between three EQ modes or re-program them, and save your settings on the device. There are also the Direct Mic Mute, Direct Mode, Super X-Fi and SXFI BATTLE Mode on/off buttons, as well as a speaker (Line-out) and headphones switch button. After a one-time setup, instantly adjust the volume levels between two audio sources (SPDIF / Optical / USB) with the Audio Balance feature via the volume knob, perfect for communicating with music on
- GAME AND HEAR YOUR WAY – Choose between SXFI BATTLE Mode or Scout and get to winning your FPS game. Configure each element of your audio settings or switch them off completely via the Creative app. Access the full range of audio adjustments via the PC app, or make quick adjustments to your EQ settings from your phone. All these are powered by our Sound Blaster’s audio promise with 114 dB audio clarity and hi-res 192 kHz/24-bit playback
- CONNECT WITH EVERYTHING - With a newly added optical-in port, it is now much easier to connect multiple audio devices, from external microphones and headsets, to platforms like your PC, Mac, gaming consoles, and even your multi-channel speaker systems. Just power up the Sound Blaster X4 via the USB-C port, and enjoy high-quality audio with everything. The Sound Blaster X4 is also a headphone amplifier that is capable of driving studio-grade headphones of up to 600Ω
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What to Look For in a best external soundcard?
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So, we're here to help. Our new article will show you how to purchase the best item for your necessities quickly so that it arrives on time and as expected. It's that easy!
Swappable OpAmp
High-end sound cards offer the option of swapping out their OpAmps. Different OpAmps can provide different audio characteristics. Audiophiles love the ability to personalize their sound card's sounds.
DAC Quality
The first thing to look for in a sound card is the quality of the Digital-to-Analog-Converter. The DAC module is responsible for audio playback. A better DAC will result in a more natural sounding track.
How can you determine the quality of a DAC's DAC? The SNR (Signal to Noise Ratio) is a common indicator of the DAC's quality. It simply refers to the volume of the intended useful sound compared with the noise that is not being used.
High-end sound cards can provide a SNR of up to 124 dB. The majority of motherboards that have onboard audio solutions offer an SNR between 80 and 90 dB. This is quite a difference considering decibels can be logarithmic.
Moreover, in addition to the SNR, the DAC also controls bit depth and audio sampling rates.
The latest high-end sound card can provide 24-bit, 32-bit and even 32-bit audio at a sampling rate of 192-kHz to 384-kHz. These specifications roughly define the audio quality of the sound card, although there are other factors included such as gold-plated connectors, Electromagnetic-Interference shielding, etc.
How can you determine the quality of a DAC's DAC? The SNR (Signal to Noise Ratio) is a common indicator of the DAC's quality. It simply refers to the volume of the intended useful sound compared with the noise that is not being used.
High-end sound cards can provide a SNR of up to 124 dB. The majority of motherboards that have onboard audio solutions offer an SNR between 80 and 90 dB. This is quite a difference considering decibels can be logarithmic.
Moreover, in addition to the SNR, the DAC also controls bit depth and audio sampling rates.
The latest high-end sound card can provide 24-bit, 32-bit and even 32-bit audio at a sampling rate of 192-kHz to 384-kHz. These specifications roughly define the audio quality of the sound card, although there are other factors included such as gold-plated connectors, Electromagnetic-Interference shielding, etc.
Software Features
Because everyone has their own preferences, the software capabilities of a sound card are essential. It is actually one of the most important reasons you should get a soundcard.
Virtual Surround Sound is the most prominent feature. It's often used with headsets to improve spatial awareness in games, particularly in esports. These software solutions can also provide advanced audio features like customizable frequency response, equalizer settings and other options.
Virtual Surround Sound is the most prominent feature. It's often used with headsets to improve spatial awareness in games, particularly in esports. These software solutions can also provide advanced audio features like customizable frequency response, equalizer settings and other options.
Channel Support
For a fantastic home theatre, 5.1 channels are essential. Many of the latest sound systems feature the 7.1 and 7.2 surround sound. These audio systems give the illusion of 3D sound and provide incredible immersion.
Only the sound card can provide separate channels to the system. Many sound cards can provide virtual 7.1 sound through audio processing, but only a handful of cards offer true surround sound support. If you have a high-end, 7.1 home theatre system you may be using costly external audio solutions. However, if this is the case, then you should consider upgrading to the most recent 7.1-channel sound card.
For headphone users, the majority of high-end headphones can be used as stereo headphones. You will only get surround sound via the sound card's Digital Signal Processing.
Dolby Atmos' latest format provides 3D sound, but comes with a lot of requirements. Although there are some 7.1 surround headphones on the market with as many as ten drivers, their audio latency makes them less appealing than high-end stereo headphones.
Only the sound card can provide separate channels to the system. Many sound cards can provide virtual 7.1 sound through audio processing, but only a handful of cards offer true surround sound support. If you have a high-end, 7.1 home theatre system you may be using costly external audio solutions. However, if this is the case, then you should consider upgrading to the most recent 7.1-channel sound card.
For headphone users, the majority of high-end headphones can be used as stereo headphones. You will only get surround sound via the sound card's Digital Signal Processing.
Dolby Atmos' latest format provides 3D sound, but comes with a lot of requirements. Although there are some 7.1 surround headphones on the market with as many as ten drivers, their audio latency makes them less appealing than high-end stereo headphones.
Additional Power And Connectors
Some sound cards, in addition to the minimum requirement for the motherboard's PCI/PCI Express slot, require extra power to run the components. This connector is typically a Molex connector.
Interface
There are two kinds of interfaces when we talk about the computer. The first is an interface between the soundcard and the computer. The second is an interface between audio devices and the soundcard. The latest sound cards require a PCI-Express slot. Make sure to have another, free slot.
The audio interface must be inspected at the ports of the sound card. Some sound cards support multichannels via RCA jacks, while others utilize 3.5mm jacks. Some sound cards have 3.5mm headphones whereas others provide 1/4-inch or 6.3mm headphones.
The audio interface must be inspected at the ports of the sound card. Some sound cards support multichannels via RCA jacks, while others utilize 3.5mm jacks. Some sound cards have 3.5mm headphones whereas others provide 1/4-inch or 6.3mm headphones.
Headphone Amplifier
An essential component in sound cards is the Headphone amplifier. It is required if you have studio-quality headphones. These headphones have higher impedances, so they are not compatible with low-end sound card that don't include a headphone amp.
Studio-grade headphones that have poor audio solutions will result in low volume. If you wish to purchase studio-grade headphones with poor audio solutions, ensure that you get a sound card that has a dedicated amplifier for your headphone. The supported impedance should be greater than the rating of the headphones.
Studio-grade headphones that have poor audio solutions will result in low volume. If you wish to purchase studio-grade headphones with poor audio solutions, ensure that you get a sound card that has a dedicated amplifier for your headphone. The supported impedance should be greater than the rating of the headphones.
RELATED: We compiled a list of best soundcard for pc of November 2024 that you can buy on the internet based on 35,659 reviews from former users.
FAQs
What Alternatives To Sound Card Do Exist?
A comparison of sound cards and alternatives to them. The most popular alternative is the USB headset. It can play both music and voice. The downside is that USB headsets are limited in audio quality, typically 16-bit 48kHz. They cannot produce high frequency frequencies sufficiently well to reproduce music and speech. There may also be latency problems with USB headsets for playing digital audio streams from computers.Are USB Audio Cards Good?
If you're a filmmaker or video editor, USB cards may be your best choice. An external chipet can be used to connect it to other consoles, whether it's a computer or laptop. If you are looking to enhance your audiophile level, USB audio cards can be very useful.Do Audio Cards Really Make A Difference?
An audio card's main purpose is to enhance sound quality when playing video games or listening to the in-game sounds. Even with a high-end headset, the inbuilt sound card on a PC or gaming console may be dull. You need a sound card with balanced sound to balance the sound.What Is The V8 Soundcard?
The version number V8 indicates the type of audio card that you'll be using. Multi-function models are the basis of this audio card. This is currently the only chip that allows dual-mobile use. Both iOS and Android smartphones can use the sound card to play games.How Long Does The Soundcard Battery Last?
These chipsets are available in two versions. The one you see will likely be an internal PCIe card, while the other might be an exterior card. The power source for your motherboard will supply the internal cards with the power. They do not need a battery. To get power, some external devices can be connected to the computer via a USB connector.Which Is The Best Audio Card?
It can be difficult to find the right audio card. The right card will improve surround sound capabilities and provide great results.What Makes A Good Sound Card?
High signal-to noise ratios and low distortion are the hallmarks of a sound card. Your soundcard's SNR (signal-to-noise ratio) will have a greater ability to reproduce audio signals and not introduce unwanted artifacts.Conclusion
Its features, not its name, are what define best external soundcard in 2024. This may seem self-evident, but it's easy to become fixated on a specific company or brand due to its reputation. We strongly advise you to consider your needs and determine which products will assist you in meeting them. With our options above, if you can't choose any suitable one, let's check USB Audio Adapter, JSAUX External Stereo Soundcard, USB to 3.5mm. Wish you a nice shopping day!
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