I feel silly asking such a simple question—I can build a computer blindfolded, but from time to time I shock myself at the little things I haven’t learned: If I buy a USB-powered headset and install a Sound Blaster card on my motherboard, will my headset take advantage of the soundcard even though it’s plugged into a USB port (and not directly into the card)?

Sean, your USB headset includes its own sound decoders and will not take advantage of your Sound Blaster card. The best way to reap the benefit of your soundcard is to buy an analog gaming headset. We really like the Astro a40, but it’s pricey: $200 without the Dolby-decoding mixamp. We also like Steel Series’ 5H v2, which is $100.

SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION Are flames shooting out of the back of your rig? First, grab a fire extinguisher and douse the flames. Once the pyrotechnic display has fizzled, email the doctor at doctor@maximumpc.com for advice on how to solve your technological woes.