Auzen X-Meridian 7.1 2g soundcard review - Introduction

Manufacturer: Auzentech
Website: www.Auzentech.com
Price: $159.99 USD

Introduction
To those that have been following the soundcard market and industry as a whole, the original X-Meridian 7.1 changed many aspects of both.

The original X-Meridian marked a dramatic shift in the market and peoples understanding of these devices.  Since the XM was focused on sound and component quality, new users started taking notice of what was actually on their cards instead of just what features they offered.

Digital to Analog converters, capacitors, opamps were suddenly topics of discussion in normal audio threads.  The XM also allowed people to easily swap out the opamps and improve or change the sound signature to their personal tastes.  Since that cards release, all cards released afterwards had to step up their game as the consumer became more educated in terms of sound card components and demanded improved designs utilizing the latest in DAC's, opamps and other components.

The original XM also helped promote a newer mainstream soundcard DIY community.  These days, people with no prior electronics education are swapping opamps and considering other modifications to enhance their audio experience.

With a name like X-Meridian 2G, the guys at Auzentech have a tough act to follow, is the design up to the task?  Today in the Guru3D Audio Lab we have a brand new Auzentech X-Meridian 7.1 2G, so let's get to it and see if Auzentech can release a new version of a legendary audio card.