The new card is pro-spec. USB is a data bus. It is not limitted to 'left and right'. This card allows the latest in Dolby, theater surround sounds, etc. The thing about Creative is that they come up with the latest in technology at lower prices. True, it is to be checked first. But as far as computers, older than 2 years is now old. For instance, rather than fix an even older one I rather just bought a new one for 500.US with a 1 Gigahertz cpu. That's for desk models though. Portables are still costly but have lowered in price too while going way up in performance. I'd say it won't be too long before all speakers are wireless receivers, all digital too. Eventually you'll be at the ball room, wirelessly connected to the internet, from where all your files and songs will be available. No home computers, back to terminals? The arranger will be an internet machine too.