Jim Thompson wrote:

Looks like the built-into-mobo sound on my wife's PC has taken a
dive... inadequate volume.

Any recommendations for cheapy add-in sound cards?

Hahhahahahaha !

You won't see the best advice because you're a stupid clot who filters
me, so I can happilly tell you that you need a 2nd hand (cheap)
Soundblaster Audigy ( doesn't matter much which model).

Damn good card for next to tuppence and your bigotry means you'll
doubtless buy something inferior for more money ! What Joy !

Graham