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DTS Bridges PC / AV Component Connectivity with DTS Connect; Strategic Partnerships with C-Media and Realtek Bring High-Quality DTS Surround Sound Into PCs
Creative Announces Xtreme Fidelity And The Creative X-FI Xtreme Fidelity Audio Processor
Doom 3 EAX Patch
Logitech Cordless Headset for Xbox Review
Philips HDRW720 DVR/DVD recorder review
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Creative Sound Blaster Audigy 4 Pro Review
With the advent of PCI-E, the PCI line of cards are being slowly phased out, and like the AWE64 Gold of the past, Creative Labs decided to make one last PCI card, to be a transition from what was, and what is coming.  Enter the Audigy 4 Pro.  Take the best from the PCI pro music card, and add the best gaming support that their cards are known for, and you have the premier all-in-one consumer offering for PCI.   The Audigy 4 Pro was something long overdue, as you will see in this review.

NVIDIA nForce Audio Processing Unit Review
In our latest review we check out the Audio Processing Unit (APU) used NVIDIA nForce 1 and nForce 2 based motherboards.  This APU has received a lot of attention from its role in the Microsoft X-Box and for powering the first PC audio product to deliver Dolby's real time Dolby Interactive Content Encoder (DICE).  In this reference audio processing unit (APU) review we cover in-depth just what the nForce and nForce2 motherboards bring to the table, cutting through the hype and misconceptions.   Among other things we uncover that while the high profile DICE feature works exactly as advertised there are other results that we think will even excite those gamers who don’t need the connectivity offered by the DICE.  The reference review will also look at other aspects of the nForce including more details on connectivity, benchmarks, audio quality results using the RightMark tool and more.  What we don't cover in our review are non-audio features of the nForce.  For all of the details you can check out the full review.

Swan M200 2.0 Speaker System Review
In one of our latest reviews we check out the Swan M200 2.0 speaker system.  The build quality of the system is clearly well above average using solid Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) construction, high quality heavy duty binding posts and very good attention to detail.  The amplifier send a true 72 watts RMS to the system feeding a 5 ¼ inch long throw linear excursion design driver and a 1-inch silk dome tweeter that utilizes a ferro fluid cooled voice coil.  Everything about them has a feel of quality.   Something else that jumps out immediately is each satellite is the size of some of the smaller multimedia subwoofers!  For all the test results on this attractively priced ($200) performance system please check out our review/

Logitech Z-560 Review
In the fall of 2001 Logitech started shipping their new line of Z-Series speakers. This speaker family, which includes the Z-560, Z-540 and Z-340, combines what Logitech calls “spectacular performance with patented Logitech technology, to offer an attractive line of high-end audio products”. In this review we take an in-depth look at the flagship product of the series, the THX® (multimedia speaker) certified Z-560, a 4.1 system that according to specifications delivers a true 400 watts RMS of power at an amazingly low MSLP of $200! While marketing claims are often spectacular, it turns out that Logitech has delivered a product that really does deliver amazing performance! 

Philips MMS305/A3.500 4.1 Flat Initial Review

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Boston Acoustics BA7800 Speaker System Review
In our latest speaker system review we check out the Boston Acoustics BA7800 4.1 speaker system.   Available directly from Gateway for $150 the system bears a striking similarity to the satellites and subwoofer that Boston Acoustics uses in their Kenwood-partnered Unity 5.1 system (that comes with a custom amp/DVD player from Kenwood). It's of course not the same system but Boston Acoustics material indicates that by using a “sophisticated home theater-grade crossover”, the front satellites have been “meticulously voiced for superior response”.  The Subwoofer is also promising with an 8" down firing ported design that promises bass extension down to 33 Hz within +/- 3 dB.   After all our tests we conclude that the BA7800 is a system worthy of further scrutiny for anyone in the market for a 4.1 system.  For all the details on performance including strengths and weaknesses of the BA7800 head on to the review which, as per our recent norm, comes with a summary sheet and two review flavors - a lengthy in-depth review and a shorter, but still fairly detailed, condensed review.

Klipsch ProMedia 5.1 Review
In 1999 with the introduction of the ProMedia v.2-400 Klipsch rocketed to the forefront of the performance multimedia speaker market. Regardless of whether or not the v.2-400 was actually the best 4.1 system, it was arguably the sexiest PC system on the market, the first to sport the then new THX Multimedia Speaker Certification, and the one most people came to think of at top end 4.1. Despite or perhaps due to the popular success of the ProMedia v.2-400, 2.1 and 4.1 the demand for a 5.1 version of the ProMedia series was strong and steady.  Klipsch has delivered their answer to those demands in the form of the ProMedia 5.1, the 500 Watt $399 MSLP system that we will offer our impressions of in this review.

Analog Devices SoundMAX SPX
In this review we check out Analog Devices SoundMAX SPX.  This integrated digital audio system uses Analog Devices AD1885 AC’97 audio CODEC to provide full-featured soundcard functionality.  SoundMAX takes advantage of today’s advanced CPUs and motherboards to implement high-quality audio synthesis/rendering and 3D sound positioning using the host (CPU) processing power rather than an integrated DSP.  Features include full EAX 1 and 2 support using Sensaura’s reverb engine, a range of 3D audio output options from headphones to 6 channel analog outputs all using technology from Sensaura, including the first commercial implementation of Sensaura's MultiDrive 5.1 engine.  The product also has Virtual Ear support, Downloadable Sounds – Level 2 MIDI music synthesizer support with a 4MB General MIDI wavetable sound set and, support for an optical digital output.  For all the details on how it performs relative to some popular PCI sound card alternative you can check out the full review.

Cambridge SoundWorks MegaWorks 510D Review
In this feature we take a detailed hands on look at a retail MegaWorks 510D, the new $400 5.1 version of Cambridge SoundWorks new multimedia speaker flagship line.  This system appears poised to put Cambridge SoundWorks back into the forefront of the multimedia performance market, matching or surpassing the performance of systems such as the VideoLogic Sirocco Crossfire and Klipsch ProMedia 4.1!  In this review we have lots of test results including direct subjective and objective comparisons to the Crossfire as well as objective comparisons to systems such as the ProMedia 4.1 and Monsoon MM2000!

Sound Blaster Audigy Initial Review

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Sound Blaster Audigy Initial Review

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Sound Blaster Live Reference and Card Specific Reviews
The Sound Blaster Live reference review has the detailed tests, the benchmarks and lots of additional information on specific games tested.  Around the reference review we have released much shorter and more general model specific reviews with traditional ratings.  These cover the following products:

More Recent Reviews

- Polk Audio AMR-130
- Polk Audio AMR-150
- I/O Magic Hurricane Extreme
- Monsoon MM2000 
- Klipsch ProMedia 4.1
- Hercules Game Theater XP
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Yamaha TSS1 Dolby Digital/DTS 5.1 System
- Logitech SoundMan Xtrusio DSR-100
- MidiLand S4 7100 Plus
-
Altec Lansing ATP 3
- Boston Acoustics BA7500
- Jazz Speakers DE-005 and DE-006 Decoders
- Abit SP50 5.1 Home Theater System

- RumbleFX Force feedback Headphones
- MidiLand MLi490
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Creative DTT3500
- Abit AU10
-
ForteMedia FM801 reference review
- Mushroom Tech. Siren 5.1 sound card
- MidiLand S4-7100
- Diamond Audio Tech ProMedia 3025
- Sound Blaster Optical Digital I/O 2
- MidiLand ADS-2000
- Altec Lansing ADA880 Dolby Digital
- VideoLogic Sirocco Spirit
- Boston Acoustics BA4800

More reviews

sirocco.jpg (1620 bytes)- Crossfire
- Spirit
- Pro

DigiTheatre DTS Review VideoLogic
DigiTheatre DTS

 

Klipsch ProMedia v.2-400 Review
Klipsch ProMedia 5.1
Klipsch ProMedia 4.1

Klipsch ProMedia 2.1

Articles
- A Newbie Guide to MP3
-
A Gamer's Guide to Direct Sound 3D and A3D 1.x  
-
A Gamer's Guide to EAX
- A Gamer's Guide to 3D sound and Reverb APIs 
- A Gamer's Guide to 3D Sound and Reverb Engines 
- QSound 3D Audio 
- Sensaura 3D Audio 
-
DVD Buyer's Guide
- Surround Sound Formats 
- Virtual Surround Sound Technologies 
- The Advantages of the Center and LFE channels 
- Stereo to 4 or 5.1 Expansion Technologies 
- Bass Management 

Frequently Asked Questions
- General Audio
- Sound Blaster Live
- Vortex 2 Support
- Aureal Technology

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Friday, February 08, 2008

Site Refresh - Mark @ 19:36 EST

Down but not out...its been ages since I have had the time to dedicate to 3dsoundsurge.com. I have now moved the site to a smaller, but stable virtual server and am planning to do a refresh of the look and materials.

Unfortunately I still don't have the time (25+ hours per review) do reviews so am planning to have the site go back to its core values - education and advocacy for PC audio and particularly 3D audio. Something that I should be able to keep moving nicely with the time I have available.

If you have any ideas or would like to contribute to revitalization of the site email me at 3dsoundsurge.refresh@gmail.com

Thanks

Sunday, May 22, 2005

DTS Bridges PC / AV Component Connectivity with DTS Connect; Strategic Partnerships with C-Media and Realtek Bring High-Quality DTS Surround Sound Into PCs - Mark @ 09:13 EST

Om May 18th Digital Theater Systems, Inc. (DTSI) launched its newest PC initiative, DTS Connect, designed to enhance the entertainment value of the PC platform. DTS has formed strategic partnerships with C-Media Electronics Inc. and Realtek Semiconductor Corp., leaders in audio solutions for the PC platform, to offer DTS audio technologies with both companies' popular chip sets for PC motherboards, and PCI or USB soundcards.

A DTS Connect-enabled PC provides two audio benefits to the consumer: DTS Interactive(TM) and Neo:PC(TM), for both multi-channel and stereo content. Taking full advantage of the maximum data throughput of the digital interface, DTS Interactive provides a single cable connection via S/PDIF digital audio output to a DTS-enabled surround sound system by encoding all audio into a DTS-compatible bitstream at 1.5Mbps. Neo:PC, based upon DTS' Neo:6 matrix surround technology, transforms any stereo content such as MP3, WMA or CD audio, into a 7.1-channel surround sound experience.

"The introduction of DTS Connect will bring rich DTS surround audio to the PC market worldwide simply and seamlessly. No matter what original content consumers play - whether stereo or multi-channel - DTS Connect ensures simple installation of multi-channel audio for the PC, and brings new life to stereo recordings," said Brian Towne, Vice President, Consumer Division at DTS. "We're proud to be working with C-Media and Realtek, two of the largest PC audio solution providers, to launch the DTS Connect program."

"C-Media is excited to collaborate with DTS to bring DTS Connect to the PC in what is yet another first for C-Media and Realtek. PC users and consumers will really enjoy the fantastic audio experience that this technology delivers," said Eric Cheng, President of C-Media Electronics.

Creative Announces Xtreme Fidelity And The Creative X-FI Xtreme Fidelity Audio Processor - Mark @ 09:03 EST

On May 12, 2005 Creative Technology Ltd. announced two major breakthroughs in audio technology: Xtreme Fidelity, the new standard in audio, and the Creative X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity audio processor. The combination of Xtreme Fidelity and the Creative X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity audio processor provides dramatic improvements to the recording and playback of MP3 music, accelerates and improves PC game play, enhances listening experiences for movies, and improves the capabilities, performance and quality of audio creation.

Xtreme Fidelity
According to Creative, Xtreme Fidelity sets a new standard for audio by supporting a combination of 24-bit quality, stunning audio clarity with a minimum of 110db SNR and the new CMSS® (Creative Multi Speaker Surround) 3D headphone and surround speaker technology. Consumers will be able to upgrade their existing CD and MP3 music to the Xtreme Fidelity standard, using applications that can run on the Creative X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity audio processor. Being able to upgrade an existing library of music to Xtreme Fidelity differentiates it from other high-end music standards such as DVD-A and SACD, which offer limited selection and require consumers to repurchase their music in that specific format. When consumers upgrade their CD or MP3 music to the new Xtreme Fidelity standard, they will be able to experience playback that sounds better than its original CD recording.

The Creative X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity Audio Processor
The Creative X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity audio processor has more than 51 million transistors, and is capable of 10,000+ MIPS. The Creative X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity audio processor is 24 times more powerful than its predecessor, and is designed with multiple engines, so it can dynamically direct resources through a modular architecture to completely change the way audio is managed for any application. The Creative X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity audio processor provides key modes that are optimized for experiences with MP3 music, gaming, movies and audio creation. Each mode is configured to dynamically dedicate the processor’s power to deliver only the features, quality and capabilities that the user requires.

CD and MP3 Music
All CD music is in 16-bit resolution, which is typically compressed from an original 24-bit studio recording. When converting CD music to MP3 format, the music is compressed yet again. These types of compression result in a compromise of audio quality and clarity. The Creative X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity audio processor drives new applications that can enhance MP3s by bringing them back to 24-bit quality, and allows the user to upgrade the music to multi-channel surround sound. This enhancement enables virtually all MP3 music to sound even better than it did on the original CDs.

PC Gaming
Game developers and PC gamers want their games to run at the fastest frame rate. This has at times caused them to compromise audio quality and realism by reducing the number of simultaneous effects or turning off audio altogether, because the audio requires so much processing power that it slows the frame rate. This significantly reduces the quality of the gaming experience and can put gamers at a competitive disadvantage. With the power and performance of the Creative X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity audio processor, gamers will actually be able to experience accelerated frame rates during game play with all the effects turned on. In addition, game developers will now be able to make their audio environments in games even more realistic as they can build to the powerful new platform of Xtreme Fidelity.

The Xtreme Fidelity standard provides a new extension of the EAX® Environmental Audio standard that was invented by Creative and is found in virtually all top PC game titles used today. With the new Xtreme Fidelity platform, Creative will deliver the fifth generation of EAX, which will immediately support hundreds of top games that are already available.

DVD and Downloaded Movies
Many people who watch DVDs or downloaded movies on their PCs want to use headphones so they can listen at whatever volume they want without bothering others. Although this keeps the volume from disturbing others, the headphones do not deliver the compelling surround sound experience available with a multi-channel speaker system. With the processing power and performance of the Creative X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity audio processor, listeners will be able to enjoy the Creative Multi Speaker Surround 3D headphone technology, which provides the experience of a multi-channel speaker system through virtually any headphones.

Enhanced Audio Creation
The Creative X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity audio processor is designed to deliver pristine audio recording quality, with advanced features and effects for music and audio creation. The Creative X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity audio processor features an SRC engine that is so precise that any audio resolution is converted to any other resolution at near transparency with 136db THD+N and digital-matched recordings in resolutions from 44.1kHz to 96kHz. The Creative X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity audio processor also supports ASIO recording with latency as low as one millisecond with zero CPU load. The Creative X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity audio processor delivers so much power, performance, quality and capability that it will be also used by E-MU Systems, the Creative Professional audio business, for future desktop authoring solutions designed for professional musicians.

Experience Creative X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity Audio Processor Applications at e3
Creative will be providing a sneak preview of the new applications made possible by the Creative X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity audio processor at e3 2005 in Los Angeles, from May 18-20. To view the demonstrations, or to get more information about the Creative X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity audio processor and Xtreme Fidelity, visit booth 2228 in the West Hall during show hours.

For more information about the Creative X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity audio processor and Xtreme Fidelity, visit http://www.soundblaster.com/products/x-fi/technology/.

You can also check out an article posted by ExtremeTech.

Friday, April 29, 2005

Doom 3 EAX Patch - Mark @ 21:21 EST

This news should have been up a while back but I continue to struggle with regulard site updates. So, in case you have missed it, Creative has released a beta driver update for the Audigy 2 series to bring real-time EAX® ADVANCED HD™ effects processing, fully hardware based 3D mixing and full hardware based audio anti-aliasing to Doom 3. That's the good news. The bad news is even though I was slow in posting the update the other half of the required update, the actual Doom 3 patch (v.1.3) is still not out. You can get all of the details from Creative. You can see the word on the Doom 3 1.3 patch from the in the .plan update from Timothee Besset. Thanks goes out to A. Tollis for the pointer.

Tuesday, April 12, 2005

Logitech Cordless Headset for Xbox Review - Mark @ 21:20 EST

XYZ Computing has posted a review of the Logitech Cordless Headset for Xbox. Here's a snip:

The standard Microsoft Xbox headset, which tends to come packaged with subscription cards is very much the default Xbox headset, in no small part due to the fact that almost any third-party headset needs the Microsoft-brand adapter in order to function (save for a special few, including some “speakerphone” systems, and today’s Logitech review). There just aren’t any cheaper, third party solutions for the most part. However, there are certain options that are both a step up in quality as well as a step up in cost. One of these options is the Logitech Cordless Headset for Xbox.

Philips HDRW720 DVR/DVD recorder review - Mark @ 21:18 EST

Designtechnica has posted a review of the Philips HDRW720 DVR/DVD recorder. Here's a snip:

More than eight years ago, DVD (called Digital Versatile Disc at the time) burst onto the scene and offered the best quality audio and video images available, all on a new shiny 5-inch disc that looked like a CD. It was predicted that it would replace the aging VCR in just a few short years. However, at that time it was perceived by some to have one serious or fatal flaw: it could not record. In the beginning, this was viewed as the format's possible Achilles’ heel. No recording ability was thought to be the death knell of any video format. Well, times have changed and DVD recorders are finally starting to make inroads with consumers. Philips, the leading proponent of the DVD+RW format, has come up with a terrific recorder; it includes an integrated personal video recorder with an easy-to-use on-screen guide that makes recording your favorite show a snap.

TerraTec Producer Rolls Out PHASE X 24 FW Featuring Xtended FireWire™ - Mark @ 21:16 EST

TerraTec Producer is poised to unveil PHASE X24 FW, the professional version of PHASE 24 FW. Featuring a range of connection options and sophisticated FireWire™ technology housed in a stand-alone aluminum chassis, this device is built to convince. Sporting two analog inputs(line, hi-Z or mic in with 48V phantom power), four outputs, digital I/O, MIDI I/O, insert jacks and gain knobs, PHASE X24 FW is theall-round studio interface for discerning users.

The two combination jacks on the front panel of the external housing accept 6.3 mm (1/4") jack plugs for instruments such as electric guitars and basses, as well as XLR connectors for microphones. Equipped with status and clip LEDs, these inputs' levels are individually adjustable using two dedicated gain knobs. On demand, 48-volt phantom power can assigned separately to each channel.

With four line outs (two main and two monitor each!), the PHASE X 24 FW's crystal-clear signals are easily sent loss-free to outboard devices. Boasting 24-bit /192-kHz signal processing and 111 dB signal-to-noise ratio, the device delivers the fidelity users have come to expect from TerraTec. What's more, two front-panel inserts accommodate external effectors, for instance, compressors and other
signal processors.

An adjustable headphones output, a digital interface (optical) for S/PDIF, AC3 and DTS formats, and a MIDI I/O round out the range of connection options. Courtesy of a FireWire™-enabled link to users' computers, all data are sent fast and latency-free to their destinations. All cords and adapters required to connect the device are included. TerraTec Producer's extended audio system also ships with a handy tote bag enabling users to enjoy the new PHASE's many benefits here, there and everywhere.

Priced at 359.00 euros (MSRP), PHASE X 24 FW is set to hit stores in May 2005.

Key features:

- FireWire™ audio system
- 2 microphone/instrument inputs (XLR combo jacks)
- Analog design developed jointly with SPL®
- Individually assignable 48V phantom power
- 2 gain knobs
- 2 analog inputs (balanced 6.3 mm (1/4") jacks)
- 2 inserts (stereo 6.3 mm (1/4") jacks)
- 4 analog outputs (balanced 6.3 mm (1/4") jacks)
- 1 optical digital I/O
- 1 MIDI I/O
- Digital hardware mixer
- 24-bit / 192-kHz analog signal processing
- 24-bit / 96-kHz digital signal processing
- 109 dB signal-to-noise ratio, analog inputs (A-weighted)
- 111 dB signal-to-noise ratio, analog outputs (A-weighted)

For more details visit TerraTec's website

TerraTec Producer: WAVE XTABLE - Mark @ 21:14 EST

With WAVE XTABLE, TerraTec Producer is set to unveil a soundboard with 500 additional sounds featuring GM and XG modes and professional quality sound. The board is equipped with 16 MB memory affording instant access to sounds - without audible latency and without tasking the computer's memory. Up to 128 voices may used simultaneously for a variety of applications ranging from elaborate orchestral arrangements to contemporary electronica and rock sounds.

WAVE XTABLE's offering of more than 500 additional sounds runs the full gamut of popular genres of music. Included on the board are all orchestra and many other acoustic instruments, unusual electronic sounds, 10 complete drum kits and an SFX kit. All are based on real instruments whose sounds were painstakingly digitized and burned to the WAVE XTABLE's ROM. A touch of a button is all it takes to audition this remarkable array of sounds.

Installation couldn't be any easier: WAVE XTABLE plugs into the wavetable connector slot - no further installation necessary. This simple twist of the wrist transform the audio card into a powerful sound generator. WAVE XTABLE is fully compatible with the prevailing MIDI standards GM and XG.

Priced 149,00 euros (MSRP), TerraTec Producer's WAVE XTABLE will hit well-stocked stores in May. For more details visit TerraTec's website

 

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