Auzentech Soundcards

uzentech X-Meridian 7.1 2G review

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Verdict:
The X-Meridian 7.1 2G is a bit expensive but it's easily one of the best sound cards you can get for analogue audio, especially surround sound.

Review Date: 25 Jan 2011
Price when reviewed: £141
Supplier: http://www.b4udirect.com
Reviewed By: Kat Orphanides
 
K well none of the links you've posted work, because you've pasted them incorrectly...

Highlighting and copying a link does not work, since all links get shortened with "...'s".
 
Sorry did not know that but i posted the name of the card look quite impressive and is rated as the best sound card for surround sound and stereo audiophiles.
 
Auzentech make cards using Cmedia chips (same as Asus) or (modified?) XiFi chips.

So the main advantage over Asus is the XiFi side, i.e. gaming - proper (non-emulated) EAX and OpenAL (no driver hacks required) support. I'm not sure if they use Creative's version of Dolby Headphone (can't remember the name), which is supposedly better optimised for gaming.

Not sure about how their Cmedia-based cards square up to Asus, though.
 
I have bought myself an Yamaha AS500 stereo amp and a pair of KEF Q300 speakers to listen to music over my PC and was searching the net for a sound card that that delivers good sound quality.I have no technical knowledge but am looking for a good sound card to use in my PC and came across this.

Conclusion
The X-Meridian 7.1 2G is around the same price as Asus’ Xonar Essence STX, but the former card has full analogue surround sound and is generally more versatile. However, we also preferred the X-Meridian 2G’s sound quality.

There are plenty of expensive sound cards with excellent audio quality, but few have the flexibility of the X-Meridian 2G, with its individual DACs for every channel, S/PDIF in and out, and upgradability through a daughterboard. Auzentech is holding its own against the latest premium audio hardware from Creative and Asus, and doing so in great style: the X-Meridian 2G is the best card we’ve heard for analogue audio for music and films.

However, if you want a high-quality sound card that’s optimised for gaming audio, the Asus Xonar Xense Bundle for around £180 is worth a look, although we thought the Sennheiser PC 350 headset was lacking in treble. Alternatively, a £55 Asus Xonar DX is sufficient for most people’s gaming needs.

Sound Quality10/10
Features7/10
Value7/10
Overall8/10
Score Guide
 
Honestly it will be much of a muchness compared with the Xonar Essence STX. I really wouldn't worry about it with a 2 channel setup like yours. If you want surround then obviously the Xonar won't do that, but it sounds like you're getting this purely for 2 channel and predominantly music listening.

I assume it is an amplifier only, and not an amp-receiver?

Also there are lots of variables and subjective aspects when talking about and reviewing sound. Again, much of a muchness at 7.2G/STX level.

I would recommend the Asus Xonar Essence STX for a 2 channel system, especially because it's locally available with top local support.
 
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