I'm finally upgrading my sound card, and would like to know the proper way to remove the audio drivers from Windows 7. I did a forum search and Google search and really didn't find anything other than using device manager and the uninstall software feature. As I remember some sort of driver cleaner was necessary for a really clean removal and install. What I am trying to do is replace my trustworthy but ancient Sound Blaster Audigy 2 ZS with a Sound Blaster Z. Microcenter has the retail version with the mic on sale now for $69 dollars which was lowest price I have seen, so I bought it. Any insight on the proper way to do this would be greatly appreciated.
When I upgraded my Audigy 2 ZS to a Xonar ST, I used Driver Sweeper and CCleaner. First, I manually uninstalled all Creative applications, then the driver, through Add/Remove Programs. Always Reboot when prompted. Then I used Driver Sweeper in safe mode. Then I used CCleaner to clean any leftover registry entries. After that, you should be thoroughly cleaned.
Thanks Heymian. I'll do exactly that. I'll also double check my bios to make sure my on board sound is off, which I'm pretty sure it is.
