To get the most out of our sound card, you'll need a good set of speakers. Unfortunately, the speakers that come with many new computer systems are adequate at best and absolutely awful at worst.

This doesn't mean you have to buy new speakers. Many game players and business users are satisfied with what they have. But if you want to get the most out of your computer's sound system, you may want to replace the speakers that came with the computer, upgrade the speaker system when you buy your multimedia kit or connect your computer to your audio system.

Most sound cards have an "audio out" jack that can be connected to the inputs of your stereo system. All you need is a patch cord that's long enough. If your stereo is close enough to your computer (and the speakers are aimed in the right direction), you'll get much better sound.

Get 'puter' speakers

If you want to buy speakers, get ones designed specifically for use with a computer. Speakers designed for an audio system won't work well with the low-power output from your sound board; computer speakers have mini-amplifiers that boost the signal from your sound card. Better speakers may have separate volume, balance, bass and treble controls.

If you're a music lover, look for a speaker that has the widest frequency range. For the best bass, consider buying a bass module or "subwoofer," types of special-purpose bass speakers that sit on the floor under your computer. Some better speaker packages include bass modules, but existing speakers can usually be rigged to work with a subwoofer purchased separately. Warning: Subwoofers can blow you away! In the hands of kids (of any age), they can be hazardous to your health.

If you're a gamer, look for a speaker system that supports 3-D or surround sound.

While it's foolish to throw money away, better speakers are generally more expensive. Expect to pay $25 to $100 for decent speakers and up to $300 for near-audiophile quality.