Creative Technology Ltd has announced the launch of a range of new high-performance Z-Series of Sound Blaster PCI-Express sound cards this week, which it unveiled at Gamescom 2012.
The range consists of three cards: the Sound Blaster ZxR, the Zx, and the Z, which are equipped with Creative’s Core3D quad-core sound and voice processor. This new series aims to cater to both audiophiles and gamers, providing a superior audio experience that enhances both entertainment and professional audio creation.
Flagship Model: Sound Blaster ZxR
The flagship card of the range, the Creative ZxR, is priced at $249 and comes with an impressive 127dB SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio), which ensures crystal-clear audio quality. It also features sockets for swappable Op-Amps, allowing users to customize their sound profile to their liking. The card includes an 80mW into 600-ohm headphone pre-amp, making it suitable for high-impedance headphones that require more power to deliver optimal performance. Additionally, the ZxR offers RCA-optical connectivity via an additional board and an external control module, providing versatile connection options for various audio setups.
“For audio playback, we use studio-grade components to deliver outstanding fidelity, and then greatly enhance the listening experience by implementing our SBX Pro Studio™ suite of audio technologies. This enables complete customization of audio playback, uniquely catered to suit individual tastes.
Our mixture of outstanding components and proprietary technologies also enables us to provide the highest quality recording experience for audio creation, which today expands beyond just music recording to include user interaction and creation with YouTube, eSports, and more.”
Other Models: Sound Blaster Zx and Z
The Sound Blaster Zx, priced at $150, offers a slightly scaled-down version of the ZxR but still delivers exceptional audio quality. It includes the same Core3D quad-core sound and voice processor, ensuring that users get a high-performance audio experience. The Zx also features a built-in beamforming microphone, which enhances voice clarity during communication, making it ideal for gamers and streamers who require clear and precise voice transmission.
The entry-level model, the Sound Blaster Z, is priced at $100 and provides a cost-effective solution for those looking to upgrade their audio experience without breaking the bank. Despite being the most affordable option in the Z-Series, the Z still boasts impressive features such as a 116dB SNR, SBX Pro Studio™ technologies, and a high-quality built-in microphone. This makes it a great choice for users who want to enhance their gaming, movie, and music experiences.
Enhanced Audio Technologies
All three models in the Z-Series come equipped with Creative’s SBX Pro Studio™ suite of audio technologies. This suite includes features such as SBX Crystalizer™, which restores the dynamic range of compressed audio files, and SBX Surround™, which creates a virtual surround sound experience even with stereo headphones. Additionally, SBX Bass™ enhances low-frequency sounds, providing deeper and more impactful bass, while SBX Dialog Plus™ enhances voice clarity in movies and games.
The Core3D quad-core sound and voice processor also supports advanced voice processing technologies, including CrystalVoice™, which reduces background noise and enhances voice clarity during communication. This makes the Z-Series sound cards ideal for online gaming, video conferencing, and content creation.
The new Creative range will be reprised at Sound Blaster Zx for $150, Sound Blaster Z for $100, and the Creative ZxR is priced at $249. With these new offerings, Creative Technology Ltd continues to solidify its position as a leader in the audio technology industry, providing innovative solutions that cater to a wide range of users.
Source: Engadget
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