Computer Audio Asylum: Recommendation by marchewd

I have decided to put my CD collection on a hard drive, so I need a better sound card than my onboard sound for 2-channel analog out. I use an ATI HD5450 to decode the new HD codecs for movie playback via TMT3. I have a separate 7.1 HT and 2 channel music system. My 2-channel system will consist of my HTPC feeding my Transcendent Sound Grounded Grid tube pre-amp with a Citation 7.1 amp in dual bridged mode to Swan Diva 6.1's and an Elemental Designs A9-700 sub (integrated via a Velodyne SMS). What would be the best use of the $200 or so for getting the audio out of my HTPC to my GG tube pre-amp? I have been mainly leaning towards an ASUS Essence STX, ESI Julie@, Audiotrak Prodigy HD2 Advance DE, Onkyo SE-200PCI LTD or E-MU 1212M. Or should I use the optical out of my motherboard and use a stand alone DAC? My motherboard is a Gigabyte GA-EP45-UD3R.

I am just looking for the best possible 2-channel sound of of my system for around $200. Thanks for everyone's help.