SFF.Network Creative Launches the Sound Blaster AE-X PCIe Sound Card

Got a spare PCIe slot in your SFF rig and want to go for that extra ounce of hardware density? Creative has launched a new member in their long-running Sound Blaster range – the Sound Blaster AE-X. Featuring a ESS ES9039Q2M dual-channel DAC, the card in an upgrade over a lot of integrated sound solutions.
The DAC supports playback up to 32-bit/384KHz with a signal-to-noise ratio of 130dB. Direct DSD256 decoding is also listed as a feature. Headphones are supported between 8 and 600 ohms., and are powered by a dedicated ‘Creative X-amp’ amplifier architecture. The card has a 3.5mm jack for the aforementioned headphones, as well as a 3.5mm line in/mic jack. Analogue out is provided by a pair of RCA jacks. Digital IO is also provided.
VideoCardz’s reporting on pricing is as such: “The card appears at €189.90 in Germany, €194.90 in Italy and 774.05 PLN in Poland, while the Chinese listing puts it at 1269 RMB.”...

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[Revenant]

I’m torn on this. I truly appreciate that Creative is still making sound cards. The DAC they choose is a well reviewed one. That said, I moved on to external DACs and AMPs long ago. Ironically for Creative, it was their X7 that first got me into external units. The X7 has the worst software I’ve ever used, but it did a good job, and still provided Analog surround processing.

I currently run a SMSL SU9N DAC and matching AMP to a pair of Jamo C91II. However, I also have more neutral Ascend Acoustics.

Most sound cards are going to be better than on-board sound under load due to interference. You still need an external AMP or Powered Speakers.

I’d like to see Creative do a proper follow up to the X7 that could take on the WIIM. Quality DACs combined with quality class D amps that can power a true 5.1 setup with proper EQ for all the channels, and a built-headphone amp, and I would probably get it. Everything in a single box. Also don’t make it a triangle this time.