If sound is clear through headphones but distorted through speakers, what should be checked instead of the sound card?

Correct answer: The speakers and their connection

Headphones and speakers receive audio from the same general sound-output system, so clear headphone sound suggests that the sound card and basic processing are probably working. The fault is more likely in the speakers, their cable, jack, volume level, or physical condition. Option A is correct. A hard disk, RAM, or keyboard would not normally produce distortion only from the speakers.