10 best hde pc sound cards

HDE, or Home Design Elements, is a brand that offers a variety of electronic and computer components, including PC sound cards. These internal sound cards are designed to enhance the audio capabilities of desktop computers and provide better sound quality for various applications, including gaming, music, and multimedia.

Key features and characteristics of HDE PC sound cards may include:

  1. Audio Quality: HDE PC sound cards are typically designed to deliver high-quality audio output, with support for various audio formats and sound technologies. They can significantly improve the audio experience compared to integrated motherboard audio.

  2. Connectivity: These sound cards often come with a variety of input and output options, including line-in, line-out, microphone, and headphone jacks. Some may also have digital audio connectors, such as SPDIF or optical.

  3. Surround Sound: Many HDE sound cards support surround sound technologies like 5.1 or 7.1 channel audio, providing an immersive audio experience for gaming and home theater applications.

  4. Software Control: They are usually bundled with software that allows users to control and customize their audio settings, including equalization, effects, and volume.

  5. Compatibility: HDE sound cards are designed to be compatible with standard expansion slots on motherboards, typically using PCIe or PCI slots.It's important to ensure compatibility with your specific computer before purchasing.

  6. Gaming and Multimedia Performance: These sound cards are often favored by gamers and multimedia enthusiasts, as they can provide a more immersive gaming experience and better audio quality for movies and music.

  7. Price Range: HDE PC sound cards are generally budget-friendly, making them accessible to a wide range of consumers who want to upgrade their computer's audio capabilities without breaking the bank.

As with any computer hardware, it's essential to consider your specific needs and the compatibility of the sound card with your computer's motherboard and operating system before making a purchase. While HDE offers PC sound cards, the availability of specific models and features may change over time, so it's advisable to check the latest product listings for the most up-to-date information on their offerings.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best hde pc sound cards on the market
  

HT OMEGA CLARO II 7.1 Channel PCI Sound Card

Based on 22 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Claro II provides up to 7.1ch analog outputs, optical input/output, coaxial output, 2pin digital input and 2pin digital output onboard. AD8620BR opamp enhances front analog output with all high quality gold plated connectors and anti-pop circuitry is built-in. Note that the Claro II is a PCI sound card. For PCIE, please see full lineup of HT Omega sound cards or contact us with any questions about compatibility.

  • CMI8788 Audio Processor
  • 24-bit/192kHz AK4396VF front channel
  • 24-bit/192kHz CS5361 ADC line input
  • S/PDIF optical 5.1ch input/output
  • Front Panel Audio support

User questions & answers

Question: Does this card comes in PCIe? cause my HTPC hasn't PCI slot
Answer: The Claro II is a PCI card. It will not fit a PCIE slot. For a PCIE sound card, please see the HT Omega Fenix and eClaro.
Question: Can anyone confirm or deny if the claro ii 7.1 is supported on the gnu/linux platform? many thanks
Answer: Never found a solution to get mine to work. I've had it since Nov. 2012. It sounds like it should work with snd-virtuoso but I haven't found the way to get it loaded. Good luck with it. Running Solus from Solus-Project.
Question: The title of the card states that it is a 7.1 ch, but, the details that describe the features state that it is a 5.1 ch. could someone please explain
Answer: The Claro II supports 7.1ch through the Analog Outputs and 5.1ch through the Digital (S/PDIF) Outputs. Analog Outputs are Front, Side Surround, Center/Subwoofer, and Rear Surround. Digital Outputs options are via optical or coaxial.
Question: Why does these new creative card only output 96 khz? Are there any other brand card that out out anything over 192 kHz 24-bit? Thanks in advance
Answer: The Omega Claro II does 24-bit 192 khz. It's a very nice card for the money and sold by a company based in Carson, California.

ASUS Strix RAID DLX Sound Card

ASUS

Based on 77 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Designed to enhance your gaming experience with 600 Ohm headphone amp, 124dB SNR, and ESS ES9016 DAC, the STRIX Raid 7.1 sound card adds high fidelity sound to your game. Featuring RAID MODE, toggle between immersive gaming audio to focus on chat channels so you can hear your party clearly.

  • Crystal Clear Audio - 124dB SNR and ESS ES9016 DAC for supreme audio performance and immersive sounds
  • Gamer-focused audio adjustments - Programmable RAID MODE lets you toggle between immersive gaming audio and chat channel focus, so you can hear what matters most in-game.
  • Table-top control box - Access controls and RAID MODE right at your fingertips so you can get back to your game without interruption.
  • Innovative audio software - Sonic Studio lets users intuitive control all audio aspects and also features Sonic Radar Pro for in-game overlay visualizing incoming audio positioning.
  • Powerful headphone amp - 600ohm headphone amp delivers clear detailed sound, Audio Processor :C-Media USB2.0 6632AX High-Definition Sound Processor (Max. 384KHz / 24bit)

User questions & answers

Question: Does work all chanels with headphone Razer
Answer: Yes and it sounds awesome, it makes them sound the way they should.
Question: The conector is pci-e X1 , X4 or X
Answer: It is a X1, the X8 is the much larger connector for Video Cards X4 is when the X16 connection is with multiple cards X16 slows down and splits the lanes from the PCIE to X8 and depending on the motherboard to either another X8 or uses the other Video card at X4. X1, X3 and X16 are three different plugs you can tell them apart by the length of where they plug in.
Question: Does the card support true 7.1 surround sound experience and asus strix 7.1 gaming headset
Answer: Yes it does. You would need a head set like a Razer tiamat 7.1 headset.
Question: i have the razer tiamat 7.1 headphone my question is does this card support the headphone
Answer: Strange because this is what the Razer site says:https://support.razer.com/gaming-headsets-and-audio/razer-tiamat-71-v2/ ASUS Essence STX II 7.1 - 3.5mm to RCA jack converter cables required. ASUS Xonar DSX - Able to fully utilize all audio jacks found on the Razer Tiamat 7.1 V2. ASUS Strix RAID DLX - Able to fully utilize all audio jacks found on the Razer Tiamat 7.1 V2. ASUS XONAR DG Headphone Amp & PCI 5.1 - Side Surround channels (gray jack) not supported. Features 5.1 channel surround sound. Creative Sound Blaster ZXR - Side Surround channels (gray jack) not supported. Features 5.1 channel surround sound. Creative Sound Blaster ZX - Side Surround channels (gray jack) not supported. Features 5.1 channel surround sound.

HDE 2 Controller Adapter Playstation 2 to USB for Sony Playstation 3 and PC Converter Cable for Use with DualShock 2 PS2 Wired Controllers

HDE

Based on 305 reviews Check latest price

Product description

You want to play your Playstation 3 with your friend, but PS3 controllers are expensive. Recycle your PS2 controllers or buy them at discount prices, and use them as PS3 controllers, with an assist from this USB converter cord.

  • Controller adapter allows PlayStation 2 controllers to be used with the PlayStation 3 consoles or PC | Vibration function supported in compatible games
  • Easy to use, just connect PS2 controller to the adapter then plug the USB cable into an available port on your PS3 or PC | For best results plug directly in device and not in to USB hub
  • Does not provide the motion sensing capability featured on PS3's SIXAXIS wireless controller | Games requiring motion sensing abilities will not be compatible with adapter
  • Compatible with only original PS2 Controllers, PS3 console, and desktops/laptops with an USB Port
  • Package Contents: 1x Controller Adapter | Adapter Length: 18" / 45.72 cm

User questions & answers

Question: This does not work for me, for any emulator even when my computer detects it. Any suggestions
Answer: No you can't. Its only for PS2.
Question: Can this be used with the ps2 DDR mats
Answer: si
Question: Does it work with guitar hero
Answer: The previous answers aren't wrong, just conflict because the game has become increasing more intense with developed expansions. "A Realm Reborn(ARR)" being a bit less intense than the current Stormblood expansion. Additionally, they've announced an end to DIrectX 9.0c support near the start of the upcoming ShadowBringers Expansion, point being the game is ever-evolving... Truthfully the GT 720 is about where the game was as 'minimum' low-res specs went on initial release of ARR, these days it's closer to a GTX 750; I also realize this is a 4+ yr old question, but since its ranked fairly high as 'frequently viewed questions' go I felt it warranted something better than a simple YES/NO answer. That said, given the ever changing status of the game, I would suggest to any current/future viewer two options (Heck... BOTH options) to help you decide if you need an upgrade to your system prior to trying the game: -----1) Google "Official FFXIV Benchmark" -- This should easily get you to the site where you can download a quick FFXIV focused benchmark of the game which will then give you a system score to let you know how well the game will likely perform on your current rig. -----2) Try the Free Trial!! -- Seeing is believing, install and try the limited Free Trial of the game!! Explore the starting areas to see first hand how well your system performs, granted the free trial is extremely limited, but the perfect tool to see if you'll need to upgrade or can live with what you've got. You may even run into another friendly player willing to give you a promotional "Buddy Invite" code you can use for additional perks should you decide to buy into the game. Bottom line, give it a try, costs you nothing but a little time. :) Have fun!!
Question: Is this work with a ps1 controller
Answer: As I have just found out after purchasing, it is only valid on NA service accounts. Although the description says all accounts it will not work for EU service accounts.

Nintendo Wii Console (Black) - (Renewed)

Nintendo

Based on 350 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Product Description Includes Black Wii Console, Black Wii Remote, Black Nunchuk.

  • This Certified Refurbished product is factory refurbished, shows limited or no wear, and includes all accessories plus a 90-day warranty
  • Built-in Wi-Fi Access For Easy Connection To Internet
  • Features A Processing Chip From IBM And Graphics Chip From ATI
  • Wii Remote and Nunchuck included

User questions & answers

Question: Can my kids play just dance
Answer: You need the regular controller and nunchuks. I have used the balance board a few times, but you really don't need it. FYI this game might be a bit too hard for a 4-year-old. My kids are 6 and 9 and they enjoy it, but they get frustrated quickly because they want to "win" and some of the games are quite difficult, even for me. My kids don't have enough patience. A good intro to this is Wii Sports Resort. The games are shorter and more simple. I think it works as a great bridge between the 2 games.
Question: Can this refurbished console be returned
Answer: Sit, pretty much. Unless you plan on standing and jumping up and down for no apparent reason. Buttons control everything, except the turn function on some vehicles, and that's just tilting the remote from side to side.
Question: does this come with all accessories like adaptor and sensory bar
Answer: You can use the Wii remotes to play!
Question: Does it hook up with hdmi cable
Answer: No.

EPOS I Sennheiser GSX 300, Gaming Dac/External Sound Card with 7:1 Surround, High Resolution Audio EQ presets for Gaming, Movies and Music - Audio Gaming Amplifier for PC and MAC Compatible, Black

Based on 90 reviews Check latest price

Product description

GSX 300

  • EXTERNAL SOUND CARD - Upgrade your gaming audio instead of relying on your PC’s on-board sound with the GSX 300 external sound card. The gaming amplifier is a hassle-free plug-and-play solution.
  • HIGH RESOLUTION AUDIO - The GSX 300 with EPOS engineered audio delivers high resolution 7.1 surround sound (with the proprietary EPOS gaming suite) for acoustic clarity and accuracy for an immersive gaming experience.
  • EPOS GAMING SUITE - The proprietary EPOS Gaming Suite for Windows 10 is the result of years of refinement and audio engineering. Digital sound processing allows the customizing of sound profiles in 7.1 Surround Sound
  • SIMPLE AND INTUITIVE DESIGN - The GSX 300 is an in-line upgrade between your headset and PC with simple plug-and-play. An integrated hardware allows finger-tip control of the game volume, sound profiles and modes.
  • STYLISH MINIMALIST DESIGN - A contemporary high-tech look, yet unobtrusive minimalist footprint, perfect for any gaming setup.

User questions & answers

Question: Does this support a 4-pin headset jack without a splitter
Answer: It is compatible with Asus Gaming laptop. But All the optical drive has limits on changing region code, often 3-5 times. Changing region code Frequently is not allowed.
Question: Can you control the chat audio in contrast with the game audio
Answer: Hello friend, Thanks for your question. Regarding your question, the cable is waterproof and the plug is not waterproof. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us via email: [email protected], phone number:+1(213)443-6766 or whatsApp: +8613926912118, we will reply you within 10 hours. Thanks and have a nice day. Best regards, Tonton Support
Question: Will this fix the static sound my mic produces? i have the epos
Answer: Hello friend, Thanks for your question. About your question, please plug it into the back of the mount.There is a cable that extends from it. If you still have problems, please feel free to contact us via email: [email protected] , phone number:+1(213)443-6766 or whatsApp: +8618578210075, we will reply to you within 10 hours. Thanks and have a nice day. Best regards, Tonton Support
Question: does this work without software
Answer: Hello friend, Thanks for your question. Regarding your question, the extension can be worked with the illuminator. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us via email: [email protected], phone number:+1(213)443-6766 or whatsApp: +8613926912118, we will reply you within 10 hours. Thanks and have a nice day. Best regards, Tonton Support

Product features

Take your game to new levels

Used in-line between the headset and the PC with simple plug-and-play, the GSX 300 delivers high resolution audio in stereo. The EPOS Gaming Suite with its advanced digital sound processing and 7.1 surround algorithm not only allows the customization of sound profiles, but also the advanced noise cancellation controls enhance acoustic clarity and minimize background noise for improved microphone control and crisp team communication.

External sound card

Upgrade your audio instead of relying on your PC’s on-board sound with the GSX 300 external sound card. There is no need to open up your gaming rig to do a complex installation; the external soundcard is a hassle-free plug-in between your gaming headset and your PC.

High resolution audio

The GSX 300 with EPOS engineered audio delivers high resolution 24 bit / 96 kHz stereo or 16 bit / 48 kHz 7.1 surround sound (with the proprietary EPOS gaming suite) for acoustic clarity and accuracy for instant reaction and audio realism for an immersive gaming experience.

Simple and intuitive design

The GSX 300 is an in-line upgrade between your headset and PC with simple plug-and-play. An integrated hardware allows finger-tip control of game volume, a customizable smart button lets you toggle between sound modes or profiles, and an LED indicator shows which sound mode or profile you are on.

EPOS Gaming Suite

The proprietary EPOS Gaming Suite for Windows 10 is the result of years of refinement and audio engineering. Digital sound processing allows the customizing of sound profiles in 7.1 Surround Sound. Noise gate control and cancellation delivers the acoustic clarity need for crisp game communication.

Stylish minimalist design

A contemporary high-tech look, yet unobtrusive minimalist footprint. Perfect for any gaming-setup.

INTEFIRE PCIe Sound Card 5.1 Internal Sound Card for PC Windows 7 8 with Low Profile Bracket, 3D Stereo PCI-e Audio Card, 32/64 Bit PCI Express Sound Card CMI8738 Chip (Driver Need Download)

Based on 102 reviews Check latest price

Product description

If you want to download online drive cause don't have a CD driver, Please click this this link:

http://www.mediafire.com/file/otk84kq9m10eiiq/PCI&PCIe-CMI8738声卡.zip/file



or ---https://pan.baidu.com/s/1CYdb3VKiDT-bIhIYBQFp4Q



Attention: if the win10 driver can't make it work, please install the win8 driver , thanks



Interface:

1x MIC (Red)

1x LINE (Orange)

1x F-OUT (Green)

1x R-OUT (Blue)

1x BASS (Black)



NOTE:

If there is not voice form the pcie sound card, please disable your local sound device.

Specific steps are as follows:

1, Right click "computer".

2, click "manage".

3, click "device manage".

4, Right click your local device " Realtek High Definition Audio "

5, Click " disable device"



Package :

1x PCIe Sound Card

1x Low Profile Bracket

  • PCIe sound card, 5.1 stereo audio card for pc window 10, Easily converts the PC into a cinematic entertainment system by providing a 5.1 3D stereo surrounding sound .
  • 16-bit multimedia digital signal editing decoder inside, Supports 32/64-bit audio processing, recording and playback
  • With low profile bracket for 2U case, your best choice of sound card for PC desktop.
  • Supports direct sound, A3D and EAX, HRTF 3D tone. Supports Windows XP / 7 8 10 32&64 bit,Vista 32&64 Bit. Driver Need to Download, thanks

User questions & answers

Question: My motherboard audio is showing that headphones are detected but not playing any sound. Will this fix it
Answer: Yes. As long as the 2.1 system connects via 3.5mm (1/8 inch stereo plug) or by red and white stereo RCA jacks.
Question: what is the warranty on the Intefire sound card? furman smith
Answer: The Nu Audio card does require external power via direct SATA power

ASTRO Gaming MixAmp Pro TR with Dolby Audio for PS5, PS4, PC, Mac

ASTRO Gaming

Based on 699 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The MixAmp Pro TR for PlayStation 4 and PC is the premier gaming audio solution for professional gamers, including esports athletes, content creators, streamers, and game developers. It was developed with esports athletes to meet their rigorous standards for audio fidelity, voice communication, and durability. The MixAmp Pro TR features Dolby Digital Surround Sound processing and enables lag and interference free audio. Simple controls allow for quick adjustment of Game:Voice Balance, mixing between game audio and voice chat. Select one of four customizable EQ Modes, and adjust Master Volume all at your fingertips. The free ASTRO Command Center software allows gamers to tune every input and output parameter of the MixAmp Pro TR precisely for every environment.

  • Tuned with astro audio v2: Tuned for gaming, astro audio v2 delivers pro quality audio for gamers when they need it most, whether live streaming to competitive play in the pits of a pro tournament
  • Astro command center software: Redefine pro audio for gamers; The free astro command center software gives players enhanced control over their voice communication and audio settings; When paired with the a40 tr headset, the mixamp pro tr delivers pro quality audio from the living room to the main stage
  • Input power: 250 milliampere(ma) at 5volts
  • Dolby audio: Dolby audio delivers cinematic, 3d gaming audio experience and broadcasts dolby out to streaming audiences
  • Game: Voice balance a feature that astro pioneered
  • Game: Voice balance allows easy adjustment of the ratio of game audio to voice chat players experience
  • Customizable stream output: Control what your stream audience hears, including chat and game audio levels; Broadcast from the stream out port in 2 channel dolby surround sound

User questions & answers

Question: Does this mixamp work with all previous A40 TR headsets
Answer: Yes but I had to buy a new cable to my headset that had a different mute control
Question: Does it come with all the cable
Answer: Yes! Included all the ASTRO cables inside the box.
Question: Will this work with the ps5 coming at the end of 2020? what's the difference between xbox and ps4, just the cable connections
Answer: i believe it will work for ps5 because its just another audio source for the console. and the difference is software on the consoles and what they recognize
Question: I’m very confused, what is the purpose of the mix amp? I would be using it on PC
Answer: It allows you to amp your volume, Fine tune the EQ so you can adjust each sound and frequency to your ears! Also helps with surround sound and chat/game volume split! Say you got loud mouth breathers in your ear and want to hear the enemy footsteps instead? Turn the dial over a touch and adjust it.

Product features

Amplify Your Gaming Experience

Control and customize gaming audio like never before with the premier audio solution for serious gamers. MixAmp Pro TR was created with esports athletes, content creators, streamers, and developers to meet their rigorous standards for audio fidelity, voice communication, and durability.

GODSHARK PCIe Sound Card, 5.1 Internal Sound Card for PC Windows 10 8 7 with Low Profile Bracket, 3D Stereo PCI-e Audio Card, CMI8738 Chip 32/64 Bit Sound Card PCI Express Adapter

Based on 81 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Interface:

1x MIC (Red)

1x LINE (Orange)

1x F-OUT (Green)

1x R-OUT (Blue)

1x BASS (Black)

 NOTE:

If there is not voice form the pcie sound card, please disable your local sound device.

Specific steps are as follows: 

1, Right click "computer". 

2, click "manage". 

3, click "device manage".

4,  Right click your local device " Realtek High Definition Audio "

5, Click " disable device"

If you want to download online drive cause don't have a CD driver, 

Please click this this link: 

http://www.mediafire.com/file/jtqyck2x2gku6cn/asm1083.rar

Package List:

1x PCIe Sound Card

1x Low Profile Bracket

1x CD Drive

  • PCIe sound card, 5.1 stereo audio card.
  • Easily convert the PC into a cinematic entertainment system by providing a 5.1 3D stereo surrounding sound.
  • With low profile bracket for 2U case, your best choice of sound card for PC desktop.
  • 16-bit multimedia digital signal editing decoder inside, Supports 32/64-bit audio processing, recording and playback.
  • Supports direct sound, A3D and EAX, HRTF 3D tone. Supports Windows 2000 / NT / XP / 7 / 8 / 10..

User questions & answers

Question: Does this provide phantom power to microphones
Answer: Unlike other USB audio adapters which only support one audio interface, TROND AC3-P innovatively packs THREE 3.5mm female audio jacks into one single device, and supports both TRS and TRRS audio interfaces. With this unique design, it can offer wider compatibility for your phone headset, gaming headset, traditional headphones with two 3.5mm plugs, or external computer condensor microphones. Best regards, Bruce – TROND Customer Care
Question: Will this **audio card work with a windows 7** intel -dh67cl motherboard** that has a **ac-kit-892hd realtek alc892 7.1 card
Answer: The green jack is 2.1. The pink jack is mono input. The black jack is 2.1 in output and mono in the input. If any other question, please email us at [email protected] for further help. Regards, TROND Customer Care
Question: Does this work on Windows Vista
Answer: Yes, this audio adapter has "AGC" option for "microphone properties" in windows. It may not be in the "levels" tab, but in other tabs, like custom. If any other question, please email us at [email protected] for further help. Regards, TROND Customer Care
Question: Would this card have a Linux driver
Answer: You can plug your headphone and your speaker into the TRRS (black) and TRS (green) jacks, then they can play sound at the same time. If any other question, please feel free to contact us via email [email protected], and our customer service team would help you. Best regards, Bruce - TROND Customer Care

HDE USB Extension Cable (USB 2.0 Type A Male to Female) High Speed Data and Power Extension Cable with Active Repeater (50 ft)

HDE

Based on 785 reviews Check latest price

Product description

High-speed USB 2.0 extension cable with an active repeater is the best solution for your wired peripheral needs. With this cable, you can easily extend the working distance of your webcam, freely move your network adapter to a better location for your signal, connect your computer to a printer without needing proximity, and many other uses! Cable features a Male A connector on one end that plugs into your computer and a Female A connector on the other that connects to the cable you need extended. If your device requires 250mA or more, it will require its own power supply or powered USB 2.0 hub that gets connected to extension cable.

  • USB extender cable increases the working distance of devices that require high speed USB connections | Compatible with game consoles, computer components and VR headsets
  • High-speed USB 2.0 extension cable supports data transfer rates up to 480 Mbps | Active repeater technology provides clarity of signal at longer distances than a normal cable
  • Cable is compatible with webcams for streaming, video game consoles such as the PS4, Xbox One and Switch, printers, smart TVs
  • Extension cable can also be used to power any device that uses a standard USB cable for power including smart speakers and devices, home surveillance cameras and Maker Projects
  • Package Contents: 1x USB Repeater Cable | Cable is can provide both data and power up 250mA to devices, if additional power is needed additional cables may be required

User questions & answers

Question: Will this work on a cable box to a projector in the next room
Answer: I am not sure if it will work for your device. However, I am not sure if the quality is poor or some other reason, but I could not get my device to be detected
Question: I want to use this to play a game from my second screen in another room is the lag noticeable, at all, for keyboard/mouse usage
Answer: Yes
Question: Will this work with a Microsoft h5d-00013 webcam
Answer: Yes this will work perfectly
Question: I want to plug a wireless usb dongle into the end of this cable, making the combo keyboard/mouse close enough to work. Will this work with wireless
Answer: Sorry. I have not experienced any problems.

Sound Blaster Z PCIe Gaming Sound Card with High Performance Headphone Amp and Beam Forming Microphone

Creative

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • Includes an external high quality dual-microphone array standard with card. Supported operating systems: windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10
  • Features Sound Core3D Audio Processor for accelerating advanced audio and voice technologies
  • SBX Pro Studio sound technologies create unprecedented levels of audio realism including stunning 3D surround effects for your speakers and headsets
  • Delivers 116dB SNR, plus audiophile-grade capacitors and gold-plated I/O connectivity and Stereo Direct lets you listen to your music pure and unprocessed at the amazing bit rate of 24-bit 192 kHz.
  • Use the Sound Blaster Control Panel just toggle between you headphone and speakers system with a flip of a switch
  • OS : windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10

User questions & answers

Question: So what's the difference with the sound blaster recon3d? i see the same "sound core3d" chip
Answer: I have the game one headset and it sounds great. I wish the headphone ohm setting had a 50 ohm selection, but I can't go over half volume in Windows at the 32ohm setting so it pushes plenty of power. I had the sound blaster zx before this and this card sounds better.
Question: What is that circular window, is it some sort of interference shield
Answer: i don't know, do you listen to 24bit audio, like blu rays and youtube and high-res music from hdtracks, or 32bit audio? If 24bit, you might be best off then with the ZxR, on the other hand I'd say the AE-5 is a safer bet, because of the surely nicer headphone amp inside can be properly used with many more headphones..., but then again your using speakers and might have an external headphone amp.., Hard to say.
Question: Does this sound card have Dolby Digital Live
Answer: Outputting digital audio via S/PDIF means that its quality becomes dependent of the DAC built into your external amplifier or mixamp, rather than the output stages of the Sound Blasterx AE-5 as, optical signals are in PCM stereo format only. Also, the Sound BlasterX AE-5 does not have Dolby and DTS encoding for optical out.
Question: Triple Question: Worth it for headphone user? Is card's mic detachable/able to be deactivated? Will it process mic audio from MoBo usb
Answer: For me, the led on the card DOES NOT work without the molex. As I have no interest in attaching the LED strip or using molex, I don't know if it's by design or by fault.

Product features

Sound Blaster Z Internal PCI-e Gaming Sound Card with Beamforming Microphone

This Sound Blaster Z is an ideal all-round solution for your PC gaming and entertainment needs. It comes complete with the Sound Blaster beamforming microphone for crystal clear voice communication.

Our Sound Blaster product philosophy comes from a total system approach. We've designed the Z series cards to give the best experience for not only those wishing to experience content, but those wanting to create it as well. This includes optimizations for voice chat and recording in addition to all of the amazing SBX Studio Pro audio output enhancements.

High-quality Connections

The Z card is equipped with gold plated connection points to ensure the card delivers the best possible audio signal.

3.5 mm gold plated headphone jack driven by the 600 ohm Maxim MAX97220 amp

  • 3.5 mm gold plated microphone jack
  • 3.5 mm gold plated 5.1 channel connections
  • TOSLINK digital audio input and outputs

116 db Signal-to-noise Ratio

A signal to noise ratio or SNR of 116 dB means your audio will be >99.99% pure audio which is 35.4 times better than motherboard audio.

SBX Studio Pro Technologies

Experience awe-inspiring audio with the SBX Pro Studio suite of technologies that immerses you in your games and movies with amazing detail and a 360-degree true-to-life sound stage.

CrystalVoice Technologies

Experience crystal clear commmunication with your teammates with the CrystalVoice suite of technologies that removes echoes, ambient noises and picks up your voice from within a zone (Voice Focus). It also maintains your voice level even if you are near or further away from the microphone.

Sound Core3D Audio Processor

The quad-core Sound Core3D audio processor is to designed to offload SBX Pro Studio and CrystalVoice effects processing from your primary CPU, improving your overall PC performance, resulting in drastically superior audio and voice quality.

Sound Blaster Beamforming Microphone

When used with CrystalVoice's Focus, the bundled beamforming microphone creates an acoustic zone and suppresses noise outside it, enabling you to be heard with amazing clarity.

Sound Blaster Command Software

Access the full suite of Sound Blaster’s industry-leading audio processing technologies including Crystallizer that helps improve the dynamic range of audio, or Bass that provides bigger punch on the low end. All enhancements are fully customizable from the Sound Blaster Command software suite on PC.

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