Creative announces USB-powered X-Fi audio solution

Reuben Lee | May 13, 2008

Sound card maker Creative Technology has announced that it will add an external USB solution to its Sound Blaster X-Fi family. Dubbed the Sound Blaster X-Fi Surround 5.1, the upcoming audio device is aimed at making it really easy to upgrade the basic sound systems in PCs and notebooks to deliver 5.1 surround sound. In fact, all that's needed is a simple connection to the USB port, according to Creative. Unfortunately for Mac and Linux users, the external X-Fi sound device will work with only Windows Vista and XP systems.

The X-Fi Surround 5.1 features several onboard technologies such as the X-Fi 24-bit Crystalizer which enhances the sound quality of MP3s and movies, as well as the X-Fi CMSS-3D which converts stereo music into surround sound. It also comes with an integrated volume control knob and push-to-mute feature. Connectivity on the X-Fi audio box includes RCA jacks for front inputs, optical output (TOSLINK), as well as mini jacks for surround sound, line-in, microphone and headphone.

The image that came with the Creative press release shows a remote control unit with buttons to adjust the CMSS-3D and Crystalizer functions as well as playback controls. We are still waiting for Creative to confirm if the remote is bundled as part of the package or sold separately.

Expected the X-Fi Surround 5.1 to debut in Singapore before the end of this month. It will retail for about S$99 (US$72.79).

Update: Creative has confirmed that the Sound Blaster X-Fi Surround 5.1 will be available throughout Asia by the end of May 2008. The infra-red remote control unit is currently available and packaged for use in European markets only. It can be used to control the volume, X-Fi CMSS 3D and X-Fi Crystalizer functions as well as multimedia content playback (when used with the Entertainment Centre Application). The company plans to sell the remote control in Asia but does not have pricing details at press time.

Filed under: Notebooks, PC & Peripherals
Leave a comment | Bookmark | Share