Creative Sound BlasterX G5 71 HDA Portable Sound Card and Headphone Amp

by Hilbert Hagedoorn on: 12/22/2015 10:15 AM | source: | 3 comment(s)

Creative Technology Ltd today announced the availability in the U.S., as part of the Sound BlasterX Gaming Series, the Sound BlasterX G5, a 7.1 HD audio portable sound card with built-in headphone amplifier.

The Sound BlasterX G5 is an external sound card that comes with the built-in SB-Axx1 multi-core chipset for hardware accelerated SBX Pro Studio enhanced audio and transforms even basic stereo into 3D positional surround sound on your headset. The Sound BlasterX G5 also supports multi-channel content, delivering true 7.1 audio for ultra-realistic surround sound.

Built with precision audiophile components, the Sound BlasterX G5 is also a 24-bit/192kHz, 120dB USB DAC and headphone amplifier with 2.2 ohm output impedance for high fidelity playback -- driving studio-grade headphones up to 600 ohms and sensitive in-ear monitors. The illuminated volume control knob and dedicated SBX and Scout Mode buttons also allow for quick volume or audio adjustments during gaming sessions.

USB plug-and-play functionality
Dedicated SB-Axx1 audio processor
120dB DAC for 24-bit/192kHz playback
Headphone amplifier with low 2.2 ohm output impedance supporting sensitive in-ear monitors and studio-grade headphones up to 600 ohms
Cross-platform connectivity
USB port for easy connection to additional USB devices such as mice or keyboards
Integrated volume and audio enhancement controls
Backlit 'X' logo and volume control knob

The G5 further expands the inputs and outputs found in today's onboard audio solutions, with the inclusion of options such as line-in and optical connections. The USB-Device port at the back of Sound BlasterX G5 offers another USB port that supplies the maximum output of 100mA, so you can plug in your gaming mouse or keyboard easily. The G5 support headsets with 4-pole connection, in addition to the dedicated microphone jack.

BlasterX Acoustic Engine
The Sound BlasterX Gaming Series also comes with the BlasterX Acoustic Engine software for PC that allows gamers to customize their audio profile to the game genres that they are playing. It is designed to intelligently decrease distractions and enhance essential audio details in games, giving gamers an added advantage. Gamers can now experience unprecedented levels of audio realism with immersive surround sound and bass boost - hear details you never knew were there! The full, customizable version of the BlasterX Acoustic Engine is available for the Sound BlasterX G5.

Pricing and Availability
Sound BlasterX G5 is priced at USD $149.99.

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Raven24
Junior Member

Posts: 2
Joined: 2010-07-26

#5209967 Posted on: 12/23/2015 03:41 AM

I wonder if its has better sound than the Xz

Spets
Senior Member

Posts: 3225
Joined: 2011-05-10

#5210000 Posted on: 12/23/2015 06:29 AM

Recently been looking at DACs, I'll be considering these

crz
Senior Member

Posts: 186
Joined: 2013-01-22

#5210129 Posted on: 12/23/2015 01:31 PM

I wonder what's inside this thing on the DAC and amplifier side and how it compares to O2+ODAC. Can't wait for somebody to open it and examine the chips inside.

LE:
Nevermind, I looked at the tech specs and there is no way this can beat a O2+ODAC combo as it is ~$100 cheaper, has a proprietary DSP and custom proprietary software that must add extra production costs and also probably sells for a higher profit margin.

There is no mention of a battery so I really doubt it can actually drive high impedance headphones without clipping.

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