Auzentech X-Meridian 7.1 2G Preview

Auzentech X-Meridian 7.1 2G Exclusive Sneak Preview

Hey audio fans, it is about that time again for another exclusive sneak peek into some upcoming audio hardware.  Today we have an exclusive look at the upcoming Auzentech X-Meridian 7.1 2G.  Auzentech’s original X-Meridian 7.1 was very well received by audio enthusiasts for HT and music audition.  Offering high quality DAC’s ADC’s, opamps and filters.  The XM set the bar high for the competition and the model is still highly sought after by many.

Auzentech has decided to produce the second generation of the popular audio source opting from some changes recommended from the companies loyal fan base.  This card also marks a move back to the highly popular 8788 based chipset (at least for this model) that has been seen on some of the best sounding cards built to date.  This card has many of the original ideas that made the XM 7.1 so popular but also has some changes that will appeal to different user types.  The card is also aimed at a lower price point with a MSRP of $159.99 which appeals to a larger audience.  So with further fanfare, let’s have a look at some specifications: 

  1) Sound Processor & Major Components

• C-Media CMI8788 Oxygen HD PCI Audio Processor
• PCI 2.2 Interface with Bus Mastering and Burst Modes
• 4 synchronous I2S output pairs
• 4 synchronous I2S input pairs
• Multi-channel AC-link can support 2 AC97 codecs
• All I2S I/O pairs support 32-bit high-definition PCM data transfer and adjustable sample rate up to 192KHz
• Integrated up to 192kHz/24-bit S/PDIF transmitter for 44.1kHz,48kHz, 96kHz, 192kHz SPDIF output
• Integrated up to 192kHz/24-bit S/PDIF receiver for 44.1kHz,48kHz, 96kHz, 192kHz SPDIF input
• S/PDIF IN supports digital loop back path for transforming between optical and RCA connection
• MPU-401 MIDI UART port support
• External EEPROM Interface for Sub-Vendor/Sub-Device ID using custom driver
• 4pcs Digital to Analog Converters: AKM AK4396 120dB 192 kHz 24-Bit Advanced Multi-Bit Stereo Delta Sigma DAC. Max Audio Resolution Playback & Quality is 24-bit/192kHz in Stereo and 24-bit/192kHz in 7.1.
• 1pc Analog to Digital Converter: AKM AK5385 114dB 192 kHz 24-Bit Delta Sigma ADC. Max Recording Sampling Rateis 24-bit/192kHz in Stereo.
• 1 pc CMI9780 AC'97 2.3 CODEC for AUX input, CD input, MIC input (16 bit/48kHz playback/recording).

  2) System Interface

• Supports onboard high grade COAX(RCA) + OPTIC(with 3.5mm miniplug-TOSLINK adapter) Combo S/PDIF transmitter module (Up to 24-bit/192khz support)
• Supports onboard high grade COAX(RCA) + OPTIC(with 3.5mm miniplug-TOSLINK adapter) Combo S/PDIF receiver module (S/PDIF-IN #1, Up to 24-bit/192khz support)
• Upgrade Extension I/O header for Optional Extension Board S/PDIF Input (S/PDIF-IN #2) - Optional Extension Board will be sold separately.
• TI's TPA6111A2 stereo headphone amplifier for FP_AUDIO powerful headphone out
• Pre-out circuit for DAC output using swappable 4pcs high performance dual audio operational amplifiers (OPAMP, DIP type). Swappable design for DIY, final sound quality and color managed by OPAMP change.
• Pre-input circuit for ADC input using 2pcs high performance dual audio operational amplifiers (OPAMP, SMD type)
• Pre-input circuit for MIC input using 1pc high performance dual audio operational amplifiers (OPAMP, SMD type).
• Max output level is 5Vrms (Differential DAC output with gain adjustment / approximately full swing from +/- 8V dual power supply).
• Stable Power Supply: 1A 3.3V / 1A 5V / 1A 8V / 1A -8V Voltage Regulator.
• Proper OPAMP control circuit (large capacity 1A +8V, -8V, dual power supply circuit) for high quality audio quality, prevent audio distortion at high volume level.
• Anti-Pop control Circuit using high performance audio muting transistor.
• Front Panel Audio(10-1 pin) connector supports connectivity for stereo audio(headphone) output and a microphone input from most new chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module.
• All 7.1 channel analog output muted by jack connection sense of front panel headphone output
• Dual MIC input available by back panel mic input and front panel mic input

Next page please, where we'll dive into a little photo-shoot of the upcoming product.