Customer Reviews

Creative Sound Blaster Audigy 4 Pro Limited Edition

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

First off, I purchased this about 6 years ago to hook my computer up to my stereo system, something that was not so common then. The sound quality for music really shined with the external box attached using Windows XP and the packaged drivers. Both the analog and digital inputs are dead quiet, and the features of the card and external box allow for so many different configurations and setups, including home theater, that I cannot mention all the possibilities. The installation is easy if you are familiar with installation CDs, and the number of inputs is the big attraction here. Comes with a remote that is only really functional when using the media center, although volume up and down work in any mode. There is no on-board amplifier, so you will need powered speakers if you plan on running speakers directly off the card. I use it to interface my digital devices and music server to my home stereo system for easy control of all my analog and digital devices, plus a few extra analog ones. I needed something to hook my stereo up to my computer so I can easily control my stereo input sources, volume, etc., from my computer. This fit the bill.

Pros:
- Excellent sound quality with both analog and digital inputs.
- Extreme flexibility when it comes to hookups and configurations.
- Still works after 6 years of daily use (not exaggerating, but see note below.)
- Software has many features and utilities for recording, editing, manipulating, etc.
- I have yet to run across another sound card with the same flexibility and quality sound in the price range, even today.

Cons:
- The special connector to hook the external input box up to the card has gotten weak over the years. The interface design vs. the cable bulk has caused connection issues if the cable is not just right. They should've made a stronger connector for this type of cable. I recommend supporting it behind your computer if possible.
- Requires an extra power connector from inside your computer.
- Only one digital input can be used (either coax or optical, but not both at the same time)

Overall, the pros outweigh the cons. I have to give this 5 stars.

First, be forewarned that this soundcard/external box system requires an extra power connection inside your computer. If you do not have a spare power connection, then the external box is useless--and that means no MIDI connections (no keyboard), no mike, etc. etc.

Second, the card itself. Uses a 32-bit audio engine. It is widely believed that the more bits, the better. However, some sources say that the bits above 16 are mainly noise, with some increased definition. At any rate, recording or playing soundfonts with this soundcard produces very harsh-sounding instruments. This may be what you want if you're writing rock music. If you're writing chamber music, choose a different card.

I bought 2 of these and only needed one.. sounds great... amazing on movies, games, and music.... awsome for recording.... so many inputs and outputs.. its great.////