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Creative 70SB181000000 Sound Blaster X3 Digital Audio Converter - Black
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Purchase options and add-ons
Brand | Creative |
Hardware Interface | USB |
Audio Output Mode | Surround, Dolby Digital |
Platform | Windows |
Hardware Platform | Headphones, PC, Speakers |
About this item
- SUPER X-FI TECHNOLOGY CINEMATIC AUDIO HOLOGRAPHY | Sound Blaster X3 is the world’s first multi-channel USB DAC with Super X-Fi technology. For movie buffs, this is the perfect desktop audio upgrade that delivers cinematic audio at the comfort of your home. Simply set up your Super X-Fi profile via a Head and Ear-Mapping process, and experience personalized audio holography directly in your headphones. You can conveniently toggle Super X-Fi on / off directly on the device to hear the difference
- 7.1 DISCRETE, VIRTUAL SURROUND, AND DOLBY DIGITAL LIVE ENCODING | Surround immersion makes up a big part of the movie experience; X3 supports up to 7.1 discrete surround for speakers, and 7.1 virtual surround for headphones to deliver audio realism with spatialized effect that evokes emotions in your cinematic experience. For Windows users, X3 also supports Dolby Digital Live Encoding for your external audio devices
- VARIOUS CONNECTIVITY OPTIONS | The X3 is highly versatile and is compatible with many devices. It features a myriad of connectivity options – from the latest USB-C port for PC and Mac, to Optical-out, and Line-in for your AV receivers and digital audio players. X3 is also specially designed with a large volume control knob, headphone and mic jacks, three direct access buttons, and LED indicators to provide extra convenience
- CUSTOMIZABLE EQ PRESETS WITH BUILT-IN AUDIO BALANCE FEATURE | The X3 comes with three customizable EQ presets for different usages –Movies Mode, Music Mode and Footsteps Enhancer Mode. You can also find the perfect audio and chat volume level with X3’s Audio Balance feature – simply toggle amongst 2 audio sources via the Volume Control Knob to optimize the balance between game and chat with your teammates
- AMPLIFY AND ENHANCE YOUR AUDIO | Featuring high-res 115 dB DNR/SNR, 32-bit/192 kHz playback for pristine audio, the X3 doubles up as a headphone amplifier, and supports studio-grade headphones of up to 600Ω. It is also equipped to further enhance your audio experience with the redesigned Sound Blaster Command Software on PC and Mac, with full access to Sound Blaster Acoustic Engine’s suite of audio enhancements, including Dialog+ for clearer dialogues, and Surround Virtualization
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Price | $151.35$151.35 | $89.95$89.95 | -18% $89.99$89.99 List: $109.99 | -7% $129.99$129.99 Typical: $139.99 | -6% $36.27$36.27 Typical: $38.69 | $19.99$19.99 |
Delivery | Get it May 8 - 13 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 31 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 31 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 31 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 31 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 31 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Sound quality | 4.2 | 4.3 | 4.2 | 4.3 | 4.2 | 3.7 |
For gaming | 4.1 | 3.8 | 4.1 | 4.4 | 4.1 | 4.1 |
Volume control | 4.3 | 4.1 | 4.2 | — | 4.7 | 4.1 |
Value for money | 3.5 | — | — | — | 4.0 | 3.9 |
Sold By | Neobits_ | i-Tech Mall | Creative Labs, Inc. | Creative Labs, Inc. | KART IT | 1MiiDirect |
hardware interface | usb | usb | pci express x1 | usb | usb | usb |
audio output mode | Surround, Dolby Digital | Surround, Dolby Digital | Surround | Surround, Dolby Digital | Stereo | Stereo, Surround |
surround channels | 7.1 | 7.1 | 7.1 | 7.1 | 2 | 7.1 |
hardware platform | Speakers, Headphones, PC | Headphones | Speakers, Headphones | PC, Nintendo Switch, PS5, PS4 | PC | PC, Gaming Consoles |
192 KHz | 192 KHz | 192 KHz | 192 KHz | 96 KHz | 48 KHz | |
signal-to-noise ratio | 120 decibels | — | 116 decibels | 120 decibels | 96 KHz | — |
platform | windows | windows 10 | not machine specific | playstation 5 | playstation 4, windows 10 | windows |
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Product information
Product Dimensions | 9.53 x 6.5 x 2.28 inches |
---|---|
Item Weight | 1.19 pounds |
Manufacturer | Creative |
ASIN | B07ZD1B1B1 |
Item model number | 70SB181000000 |
Customer Reviews |
4.2 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #36 in Computer Internal Sound Cards |
Date First Available | October 21, 2019 |
Warranty & Support
Feedback
Product guides and documents
Videos
Videos for this product
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The BEST Gaming Microphone Quality IS Possible
Publisher Video
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2:19
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Unboxing the SoundBlaster X3 USB Audio Production Device
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Creative Sound Blaster X3 USB DAC Headphone Amp Review
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Product Description
Sound Blaster X3—Connect EVERYTHING with one device.
HI-RES 7.1 EXTERNAL USB DAC AND AMP SOUND CARD WITH SUPER X-FI FOR PC AND MAC
Raising the bar for your desktop movie experience, Sound Blaster X3 comes packed full of features that promises the best cinematic experience at home, regardless of your preference for speakers or headphones. It is the world’s first external multi-channel USB DAC and Amp to feature our award-winning Super X-Fi technology, as well as 7.1 discrete surround on speakers, 7.1 virtual surround on headphones, and Dolby Digital Live¹.
The Sound Blaster X3 features a 600Ω headphone amplifier that's capable of driving studio-grade headphones with ease. Coupled with 32-bit / 192 kHz playback, enjoy detailed audio with clarity and accuracy. Thanks to the extra power from the amp, you'll get a load more volume!
¹For Windows users
AWARD-WINNING SUPER X-FI HEADPHONE HOLOGRAPHY
Introducing our first external USB DAC and Amp sound card to house the Super X-Fi technology, Sound Blaster X3 redefines your movie experience on PC, Mac and even PS5 and PS4.
WHAT’S SUPER X-FI
The Super X-Fi Headphone Holography captures the listening experience of a high-end multi-speaker system set up, and recreates the same expansive experience — with the same original depth, detail, realism, and immersiveness — in your headphones.
PERSONALIZE YOUR SUPER X-FI PROFILE
Simply set up your Super X-Fi profile via a Head and Ear-Mapping process, and experience personalized audio holography directly in your headphones.
SETTING UP YOUR SUPER X-FI PROFILE ON X3
Step 1: Create your Super X-Fi profile via the SXFI App
Step 2: On the Sound Blaster Command software or Sound Blaster Command mobile app, sign in to your Super X-Fi profile via the SXFI tab
Step 3: Set-up complete. Enjoy your Creative Sound Blaster X3 with different devices
Redefine your movie experience
What is Super X-Fi
Personalize your Super X-Fi profile
Setting up your Super X-Fi profile
IMMERSIVE MULTI-CHANNEL SURROUND
Sound Blaster X3 supports up to 7.1 discrete surround for speakers, and 7.1 virtual surround for headphones to deliver audio realism with spatialized effect. For Windows users, X3 also supports Dolby Digital Live Encoding.
INDUSTRY-LEADING AUDIO PROCESSING
To further boost your audio experience with the Sound Blaster X3, we’ve also included our industry-leading audio processing technologies – featuring Sound Blaster Acoustic Engine’s full suite of audio enhancements and delivered through the redesigned Sound Blaster Command software.
CONNECTIVITY
CUSTOMIZE YOUR EQ MODES
There are three specially-tuned EQ modes that are designed to enhance audio. Simply press the “Mode” button to cycle through them—Music, Movies, and Footsteps Enhancer. They are also customizable, and you can save your settings to each mode via the Sound Blaster Command software or mobile app.
Sound Blaster X3 | Sound Blaster X4 | |
---|---|---|
Customer Reviews |
4.2 out of 5 stars
657
|
4.3 out of 5 stars
850
|
Discrete / Virtual 7.1 and 5.1 | ✓ | ✓ |
Super X-Fi | ✓ | ✓ |
SXFI BATTLE Mode | x | ✓ |
Sound Blaster’s Surround Virtualization and Dolby Digital Live Encoding | ✓ | ✓ |
SmartComms Kit via Creative app | x | ✓ |
I/O Connectors | Optical-out, Line-in and Line-out, USB-C, Mic-in, Headset-out | Optical-in and Optical-out, Line-in and Line-out, USB-C, Mic-in, Headset-out |
Programmable EQ Modes: Music, Movies, Footsteps Enhancer | ||
Software / BLE Mobile App | Sound Blaster Command | Creative app |
Audio Quality | 115 dB, 32-bit / 192 kHz | 114 dB, 24-bit / 192 kHz |
Accessories | Sound Blaster X3, USB-C to USB-A cable (2m / 6.56 ft) | Sound Blaster X4, USB-C to USB-A cable (2m / 6.56 ft), Optical cable (1m / 3.28 ft) |
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Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like how easy it is to use the sound card. They say the software is easy to use and packed full of different EQ's and preset SFX. They appreciate the value, and connectivity of the product. However, some customers are disappointed with the stability. Customers also differ on sound quality, performance, software, and quality.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the ease of use of the sound card. They mention that the software is easy to use, it has different EQ's and preset SFX, and that it's simple to connect and use. Some say that the buttons on the card itself are easy to operate and that no extra software is required.
"...It makes a huge difference in how people perceive you. It's easy to use once you figure out the buttons and dial, and has far greater capabilities..." Read more
"...The buttons on the card itself are easy to use and it's really nice to have the volume knob if you don't have volume controls on your keyboard...." Read more
"...a great job boosting both my headphones and my speakers and the EQ is easy to use as well as having decent presets...." Read more
"...SOFTWARE: The software is clunky and tiresome to use. Way too many features that don't really do anything or negatively impact audio...." Read more
Customers like the value of the sound card. They say it's worth the money, the best bang for buck for multiple uses, and a great buy. Some mention that the amp/dac alone is worth it, and it drives an expensive set of headphones beautifully.
"...Amp that can out put 2 speaker setup with ease then this is a very good price hardware for it...." Read more
"To sum it up this Amp/Dac is amazing. The amp/dac alone is worth it let alone all the custom sounds that come with the software as well...." Read more
"...It drives an expensive set of headphones beautifully, and produces nice surround sound with both "cheap" and quality speakers in 5.1...." Read more
"...Works like a charm over USB C. Way more cost effective than a nice receiver and speakers...." Read more
Customers like the connectivity of the sound card. They say it can mix two audio sources with individual volume control, and appreciate the ability to mix different voice channels. They also say the ability switch between headset and speakers with a button is nice. They mention the separate mic channel is highly useful, and the headphones supported are good. Overall, customers are satisfied with the connectivity and functionality of the product.
"Bought this simply because the fact that it can mix two audio sources with individual volume control for each, ex. game audio and discord voice chat...." Read more
"...is actually really nice, and I do appreciate being able to mix different voice channels.All-around not very impressed...." Read more
"Software issues repetitive. Constant issues connecting to pc. Just did latest firmware and torched the device !!!! Won’t start won’t see device...." Read more
"...The ability to switch between headset and speakers with a button is nice - my A50 headset was always causing me grief in this regard, so I "..." Read more
Customers are mixed about the sound quality of the sound card. Some mention that it adds a lot of depth to the sound experience, and appreciates the sound design in games. They also say there is no audible noise even at the highest volume, and the separation for music is amazing. However, others say that it sounded bad at first, with popping sounds when playing any audio, and very subtle white noise in the headphones.
"...I mean this is a 100 dollar DAC, yet sxfi has such immersion and sounds so clear that mp3 tracks sound like my $800 ibasso dx200 dac/amp lossless..." Read more
"...The Sound Blaster X3 is, and the sound quality surpassed my expectations...." Read more
"...I think all the functionality has it's place and adds a lot of depth to the sound experience...." Read more
"...I tried to use this card because sound quality is on a good side, but it is really annoying to listen to the music which is disconnected/shuttered..." Read more
Customers are mixed about the performance of the sound card. Some mention that it works well when it decides to work, while others say that it doesn't work super with their amplifier and that the software pretty much doesn' t work.
"...The headphone dac/amp works well as you get the super x-fi experience. It is great for gaming...." Read more
"...However, this card does not work very well.Most critical issue for me is the stuttering sound...." Read more
"...The SXFI feature works great when you take the time to get good pictures of your ear/faces, initially, it sounded bad but I've come to enjoy the..." Read more
"This unit is fantastic. You can load a personal profile for the headsets you connect. You select the brand and model of headset...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the software of the sound card. Some mention that it's pretty awesome, has great software, and is a fantastic piece of equipment, while others say that it is buggy and repetitive. They also mention that the software keeps forgetting the settings.
"...Basically creative has integrated software with the hardware so you can do actions with the buttons that a JDS or a Schiit cannot do, but if you do..." Read more
"...work as a "command" center to control this card, but this software has the bugs...." Read more
"...It has a software management option or totally hardware based. I currently have a 5.1 Logitech speaker system plugged into it...." Read more
"...The item is amazing, the sound is clear and the power delivered to my Sennheiser PC38X is noticable...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the quality of the sound card. Some mention that the overall build quality is passable, while others say that it became more and more defective. Some say that the product is solid external sound card, while other say that is significantly underperformed out of the box.
"...Shortly, this card is not a very good choice, at least for the people who want the optical (toslink) connection...." Read more
"...through a preamp to some nice Sony speakers, and the quality improvement is noticeably better than the SBX...." Read more
"...If you shut down, or reset your computer with mute on, the X3 won't power up. You have to power cycle by yanking the cord...." Read more
"...are awesome (especially the scout mode for gaming), but none of it is worth constant, random popping...." Read more
Customers are dissatisfied with the stability of the sound card. They mention that it glitches out and stops working. The control software is flaky and unreliable, and there are still some annoying glitched that persist. The drivers seem to crash with the latest Windows 10 drivers.
"...However, there are still some weird/annoying glitches that persist. If you shut down, or reset your computer with mute on, the X3 won't power up...." Read more
"...The software is a laggy, glitchy mess. Most recently, an update to the software just erased the playback section of the application...." Read more
"...If you change the output, it crashes, you just want to sit there and listen to music or play a game or watch a video it crashes, and not only does..." Read more
"...Can tend to be glitchy when working with discord, will glitch out and sound will stop coming and mic will stop working and that's slightly annoying..." Read more
Reviews with images
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Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
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I've received X3 and connected to my computer today. I've used spdif interface to connect the playbar to X3 output. If you want Dolby Digital Live encoded output on your spdif, you can do that. Make sure your source is in Dolby Digital to hear your surround speakers come to life. For Windows apps (youtube, browsers, etc.), you still can still get amazing surround sound.
I must emphasize I do hear difference in audio quality between Sound Blaster X3 vs MSI Meg z390 Ace onboard Realtek audio. Sound Blaster X3 has the superior DAC and simply better output quality. DAC modes such as Roll-Off methods are also supported and god sent if you're into HI-FI systems and you know the characteristics of your speakers very well. If you're looking for a great quality audio upgrade for your desktop, laptop or console, I'd highly suggest giving X3 a go.
To this date, I've had never seen an software audio effect actually helping or sounding good. However, SBX effects that are run on Creative X3's sound engine are an exception to this. "Crystalization and Smart Volume" definitely helps with clarity for low resolution audio like mp3, standard windows gaming audio. I've had long forgotten a dedicated sound card was needed but seems like I'm back in game.
update: i've tried sxfi with campfire andromeda gold special editions. If I disable the sxfi, the sound is just okay. There's no soundstage to find for some reason. However as soon as I enabled sxfi, damn... I mean this is a 100 dollar DAC, yet sxfi has such immersion and sounds so clear that mp3 tracks sound like my $800 ibasso dx200 dac/amp lossless tracks. Go figure. This wasn't the reason I got this DAC but sxfi is totally worth it for lossy audio files and most likely game sounds as well. To be honest, I've thought this would be all gimmick but nope, this is wow.
I think all the functionality has it's place and adds a lot of depth to the sound experience. I'm having a lot of fun playing with the different options. It almost feels like playing with different electric guitar sound effects, finding that right sound or distortion that fits the mood or tune.
This can drive any headphone but unlike many other amp/dacs this offers a lot of flexibility and customization. Really glad I came across this solution before pulling the trigger on something else.
Update: I felt compelled to add more with the sounds pumping into my V-Moda m100s. It's absolutely amazing. Really glad I made this purchase.
One con/gripe I have is that it has no on/off switch. The USB on my computer leaves it on so I have to unplug it to turn it off when not in use. Other than that nothing major to report.
I highly recommend this as the end all be all amp/dac. That's just my two cents for whatever it's worth.
Top reviews from other countries
Xfi degrade your audio quality but add a lot of immersion, feel like the sound is coming from the speakers around you instead, its so real that sometime I need to take off my headphone to make sure the sound is not coming from the speakers itself. which is perfect anything requiring directional like gaming.
Pros: Tiene botones al frente para cambiar entre diferentes ajustes (incluyendo los propios) según el contenido que estés viendo. Me gustó mucho que sólo necesite el cable USB tanto para los datos como para la energía, eso hace que se vea más limpio el espacio donde lo coloques.
Contra: Me parece que podría ser de tamaño más pequeño, aunque para quienes sí utilicen el dial podría estar perfecto (yo lo compré por el sonido 5.1 ;). En el software: Parece que hay un pequeño delay casi imperceptible a la hora de subir y bajar el volumen desde la PC, sólo es en ese momento pues a la hora de ver o jugar va fluido.
Lo he conectado tanto en modo analógico como en digital:
En analógico: Puedes reproducir todo el contenido en 5.1 emulado tanto con el software del producto así como al cambiar entre los diferentes effectos de las bocinas. En lo particular a mí me gusta mucho de esta forma para escuchar música que viene nativa en 2.0.
En digital: Este modo es tremendamente superior al analógico cuando se habla de que la fuente también viene codificada y surround (esto es en películas bluray y videojuegos) las Logitech cambian inmediatamente al modo de codificación y se oye más claro que en analógico. Este modo no me gustó para la música pues con fuentes 2.0 solo se escuchan las 2 bocinas frontales y si acaso el subwoofer y no se aprovechan las demás bocinas.
Reviewed in Canada on December 30, 2020