Tried an external sound card: the Creative Sound Blaster X3

Even if PCs and laptops nowadays have a sound card installed and you don’t necessarily need a dedicated sound card, it is usually still worth upgrading the integrated sound cards. Unfortunately this is not always possible, be it because there is no PCIe slot available, a laptop or even a console. This is where the forefather of sound cards comes into play.
Creative offers with the Sound Blaster X3 an external USB-DAC (digital-to-analogue converter) with headphone amplifier, which enables not only virtual but also real 7.1 surround sound.
The Creative Sound Blaster X3 can be connected via USB to PS4, PC or Mac. Any other source can also be used via a jack input, but then of course with reduced functionality.
Is it worthwhile to upgrade from an internal sound solution to the Creative Sound Blaster X3 for 124.99 Euro? Let’s find out!
Technical details
Compatibility | Windows, Mac, PS4, Nintendo Switch |
Max. playback quality |
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Max. recording quality |
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Power supply | USB type C |
ADC | dynamic range: 104 dB, THD+N: 0.0017% |
DAC | Dynamic range (stereo): 115 dB, THD+N (stereo): 0.0004% |
Audio technologies | CrystalVoice, Scout Mode |
Headphone amplifier |
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Input options |
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Dynamic range (DNR) | 115 dB |
Dimensions | 129 x 129 x 40.6 mm |
Weight | 330 g |
Price | € 144.99* |
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Creative Sound Blaster X3 externe USB-DAC- und Verstärker-Soundkarte price comparison
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