The Creative Sound Blaster Pro Gaming AE-5 Plus PCIe Sound Card is a premium audio solution designed for gamers and audio enthusiasts. It builds upon the features of the original AE-5 model with several enhancements that make it stand out in the competitive sound card market.
Key Features:
- High-Quality DAC and Amplification:
- The AE-5 Plus is equipped with an ESS SABRE32 Ultra DAC, offering excellent sound clarity with a high dynamic range and low total harmonic distortion (THD). This makes it suitable for both gaming and high-fidelity music. The card’s XAMP bi-amplifier technology allows each audio channel to have its own dedicated amplification, which is especially beneficial for users with high-impedance headphones (up to 600Ω).
- Dolby Digital Live and DTS Encoding:
- One of the main upgrades in the AE-5 Plus over its predecessor is the inclusion of Dolby Digital Live and DTS encoding. This feature enables real-time surround sound for gaming and multimedia, which is ideal for users with surround sound systems or external AV receivers that support these formats.
- Sound Blaster Command Software:
- The Sound Blaster Command software provides comprehensive customization options. Users can select audio profiles, adjust the equalizer, and enable the “Scout Mode” for enhanced in-game sounds such as footsteps, which can be advantageous in competitive gaming.
- RGB Lighting:
- A unique feature of the AE-5 Plus is its customizable RGB lighting. The card comes with an LED strip that can be installed in the PC case and synced through the Sound Blaster Command software, with various effects such as “Wave Rainbow” and “Mood Yellow,” adding a visual appeal to the setup.
Performance and Reception:
The AE-5 Plus is praised for its audio fidelity and versatility, particularly among users who need a sound card that goes beyond what onboard audio can provide. Reviews highlight its superior sound quality, effective surround sound capabilities, and extensive customization options through software. However, some users noted that the software could benefit from more preset profiles for different gaming and media applications.
This card is ideal for users who value audio quality, customization, and a visually appealing setup.
Creative Sound Blaster Pro Gaming AE-5 Plus Review @ ExtremeHW