External sound cards are a simple way to upgrade PC audio without having to tinker around inside the computer. The Philips Aurilium connects to a PC via USB 2 and provides desktop and notebook computers with great audio quality.

It's refreshing to have an external sound card that works straight out of the box without drivers. However, the Aurilium only works with Windows 2000 and XP PCs.

The pack contains digital-out, optical-out and output for surround sound speakers. There's also a line-in socket on the front. The most interesting feature, though, is the Sound Agent 2 application. This excellent and intelligent piece of software allows you to enhance the audio quality of low-quality MP3 files, listen to pseudo surround sound audio from stereo speakers and take advantage of the extra features stuffed into the Aurilium.

As well as the large collection of 3D surround sound effects, there are preset effects to further enhance your sound environment. There are also other useful programs such as Acid Xpress for creating sample-based tunes, AudioPix slideshow software and MusicMatch Jukebox for organising and playing MP3s.

Audiophiles will like the 24-bit processing and 96KHz sampling rate - they offer crisp, full sound and with the surround sound support you can enjoy games and DVDs as they were intended.

On the front of the unit is a volume dial that changes PC volume, not just the unit volume. There is also a large mute button and a 3D button for activating any effects or enhancements you have set. The unit is powered by USB 2, so there's no need for an extra power source.

All in all, the Philips Aurilium is one of the smartest products we've seen this year and with such a reasonable price tag, it should sell well. It's simple to set up and will get the best out of 5.1 speakers.

Contact: Philips 020 7949 0069
www.philips.co.uk