True Professional Audio Without External Accessories and Additional Cables with SoundBlaster AE-X

Creative has announced the new Sound Blaster AE-X, an internal PCIe audio card aimed at desktop users looking for a high-end audio solution without resorting to external DACs and separate amplifiers. The new model sits at the top of the Sound Blaster range and combines high-fidelity audio playback, dedicated headphone amplification, and advanced software tools for sound customization in a single solution.

Creative's new offering emphasizes complete integration within the desktop PC. The installation via PCIe interface eliminates dedicated power supplies, additional cables, and external devices on the desk. The direct integration with the system also allows for reduced latency and centralized control through the proprietary Creative NEXUS software.

The card uses an ESS SABRE ES9039Q2M DAC, a component designed to offer high-precision playback with extremely low harmonic distortion and a wide dynamic range. Creative claims a signal-to-noise ratio of up to 130 dB, supports PCM audio up to 32 bit / 384 kHz, and is compatible with DSD256 content.

The headphone section includes a dedicated amplifier designed for high impedance and premium headphones. According to Creative, the Sound Blaster AE-X offers greater control over low frequencies, a wider dynamic range, and better detail management compared to audio solutions integrated into traditional motherboards.

On the software front, Creative NEXUS provides an advanced control system that includes a 10-band parametric equalizer, unified management of audio settings, and an Auto EQ function supporting community-shared headphone profiles. The application also allows for smooth management of adjustments across different applications installed on the PC.

The card also integrates the Sound Blaster Acoustic Engine suite, proprietary technology that includes various tools dedicated to sound processing. Among these are Surround for expanding the audio scene, Crystalizer for recovering details in compressed files, Bass for low-frequency control, Smart Volume for leveling sound across different applications, and Dialog Plus to enhance vocal clarity.

Regarding connectivity, the Sound Blaster AE-X offers a 3.5mm headphone output, a 3.5mm microphone/Line-in input, dual RCA Line-out, TOSLINK optical input, SPDIF coaxial output, and an HD Audio connector for the front panel of the case. The new audio card also supports ASIO 2.3 for low-latency playback and PCM recording up to 24 bit / 192 kHz. Creative has already made the Sound Blaster AE-X available on its official store for a price of €189.99.