X-Fi Support Syndicate & Owner's Clubhouse

[imperialreign]

Any other possible test that i can complete alone ?

If you don't have access to any game software, you can try these downloads: http://www.techpowerup.com/downloads/223/RightMark_3DSound_2.3.html

The CPU utilization test would probably be the best one to run - I'm pretty sure, IIRC, that it simulates how a game engine would interact with the card (been a long while since I've run this software, though). Updates can be found here: http://audio.rightmark.org/download.shtml, as well as Rightmark Audio Analyaer - if anyone ever feels a need for analyzing SNR, dynamic range, or any of those other audio specs :D


and, Creative's methodology for testing X-Fi using RightMark Audio Analyzer v5.5 (PDF): http://audio.rightmark.org/downloads/Sound%20Blaster%20X-Fi%20Testing%20Methodology%20And%20Results%20For%2 0RMAA%20v5.5.pdf

[tigger]

i just foud this,i think it may help


http://img.techpowerup.org/080202/ac97.jpg
http://img.techpowerup.org/080202/hd.jpg

EDIT- the color of the dots i used on the pic has nothing to do with the color of the wires,it was just for illustration.

[EarlZ]

I have a lot of games actually but i cant recall w/c of them can support all of the X-Fi features and that i can test alone, but i havent had any issues for a long time so i guess i have a golden card

[imperialreign]

update on my mods:


:banghead:


well, yesterday I went to get some supplies - hardware store didn't have the correct thickness copper flash that I wanted (was too thin) for my EMI shield/heatspreader, so I'll have to wait a few more days for new stock.

Couldn't find correct LEDs to swap out the red ones on my card, so I guess I'm going to have to order some 1.5v blue online, instead.

As to the FP conncetion . . . ARRGGHHH!! I couldn't find a connector that I could resonably use, so I decided (in my infinite brilliance here) to completely remove the proprietary connector from the PCB. That was fine, all the pins came out without a problem.

So, I figured I would replace those with the pins used for FP connectors on a motherboard, this would let me use the single pin connectors on my chasis, and I can swap connectors around while testing stuff out - luckily, I had an old ABIT socket 7 board still laying around, so I removed 10 pins from that. Well, when I went to solder them on to the X-Fi, they turn out to be about .5mm bigger than the pins I removed, so the wouldn't go through the holes in the PCB. Next thought - I've got a butt load of 24AWG wire laying around in various colors, so I'll just solder the wire directly through the hole in the PCB. That'd work fine, except I couldn't find my fine point tip for my soldering gun for dealing with the solder inside small holes like that - so, now I need to run back out and get a new tip for the gun for that kind of work. At this point, I'm just a bit too aggrevated by it right now, so I guess I'll deal with that in the morning

:banghead:

[btarunr]

http://www.auzentech.com/site/images/logo.gif
http://www.auzentech.com/site/images/xfi/xfi_prelude_soundcard_0.jpg

Auzentech released the RC5 driver for the Auzen X-Fi Prelude 7.1

Here are the changes as listed by Auzentech:

New Changes / Fixes in RC5 driver
ㆍ Corrects "Error I-001" seen by some users with RC4 driver.

New features carried forward from RC4 driver
ㆍDolby® Digital Live SW Feature (DDL)
ㆍALchemy Application
ㆍVolume Control Panel
ㆍSW Bug Fixes requested by Auzentech.

Changes carried forward from RC4 driver
ㆍDDL license notice and trademark acknowledgements
ㆍInput window fix
ㆍ DDL plugin update
ㆍ Driver bug fix on the BSOD during clock switch



The driver can be downloaded from here (http://www.auzentech.com/site/download/updates.php).

[imperialreign]

Alright - I wouldn't typically consider posting a review of a PC speaker setup here unless something came along that really caught my attention.

I guess you've figured then that something has :p

Recently, I received as a gift a Harman/Kardon SoundSticks II 2.1 speaker setup. I typically shy away from 2.1 setups . . . not saying that 2.1 aren’t good, TBH. Actually, 2.1 is great for the average user, whether for watching movies, playing games, or just listening to your favorite tracks; even better for users who are tight on space, and just don't have enough room for multi channels setups . . .

But, anyhow, they were a gift, and they looked intriguing, so I figured I could at least give them a go 'round. Harman/Kardon is quite well known for exceptional quality equipment, and two of their sub-divisions (JBL and Infinity) are heavy players in the car audio market (as well as home entertainment, also). Seeing as how they were a gift, also, I couldn’t help but look up the typical price of this set . . . about $200 USD.



http://www.harmankardon.com/images/product_large/SOUNDSTICKSII.jpg

The SoundSticks II is basically your typical 2.1 setup. You have a subwoofer which plugs directly into the audio_out port on your rig by means of the typical mini-jack, and two satellites that plug into the back of the sub. The speakers are self powered, so you’ll also need a spare wall outlet available. Both satellites are rated at 10W per channel, and the subwoofer is rated at 20W, with a total frequency range of 44Hz-20kHz.

The design is very modern . . . both satellites are tubular shaped clear plastic, with 4 1” mini speakers per satellite. Attached to the base of the satellites are circular stands, which appear to be some form of metal (appears to be aluminum) cased in a clear-bluish silicone based rubber, giving them exceptional grip and stability. The speaker enclosure itself can rotate a full 180* around the base, allowing for optimal speaker setup, making it possible to hang these speakers from a wall or from the ceiling. Although, the hook up lead from the base of the speakers is not exceptionally long, and would probably limit you to a desk setup. Each satellite, though, has independent leads – the speakers are not connected together with a cable at all. Volume control for the speakers can be found on the right side satellite, and is very easy to miss thanks to how well blended into the design they are. The volume up and down buttons are touch sensitive, which I found to be a rather unique feature I haven’t seen too often; adjustment only requires one to touch your finger to the button, and volume will go up or down – you don’t actually have to “press” on them.

The subwoofer enclosure follows similar styling cues as the speakers, being made of clear plastic – one can easily see the backside of the 6” woofer. Power to the speakers is indicated on by a blue LED that somewhat illuminates the subwoofer enclosure in a rather unique way. The satellite speakers attach to the back of the subwoofer, along with the power cable. Gain control is located at the back of the enclosure too, directly beside the output lines. The enclosure itself is of the vented variety, with one main vent positioned directly behind the subwoofer, channeling air straight up and out. This is probably one of my biggest issues I’ve had with this setup, as dust and debris can easily collect inside the enclosure, or act as a funnel for a catastrophic drink spill. Otherwise, though, I found the placement of the woofer (pointing directly down) to be quite different also, allowing your floor or stand to help normalize the bass sound itself – and when coupled with the vent on the backside of the woofer, it allows for this little 6” cone to produce quite a range one wouldn’t normally find with an equal offering this small.

Well, how do they sound? After spending a good 15min setting the speakers up just so, resetting all sound controls within Windows, and then tweaking outputs based on the angle and distance that the speakers were from me – I wasn’t really expecting much out of them. Once everything was setup nice and to my liking, I loaded up some of my favorite audio tracks from my hard drive which feature a broad dynamic range and that I know all too well. At first, playback was kind of flat, and just didn’t sound right – and after fiddling with various mixer settings, equalizer settings, bass, tone, etc; I finally realized it’s the speakers themselves – their design is very, very linear. I then proceeded to reposition the speakers closer to my level instead of more overhead, reset everything and started again.

Wow! Response from the speakers was absolutely phenomenal – much better than I would’ve expected for 2.1. The satellites produced very crisp highs, and a dynamic full mid range, even starting to cross into lower frequencies. The subwoofer produced very rich and deep bass for such a small 6” cone, easily keeping pace with some of the quick low frequency changes in some of the tracks I listened too. Taking the volume even higher, I heard no distortion, crackling or noise. The subwoofer enclosure was even dead quiet, not a single rattle from it at all – even with the gain set on maximum.

So, I decided to test them in-game, using Crysis, FEAR, Doom 3 and Black & White 2 for comparisons (all games I’ve been playing the most recently). The setup proved quite well within Crysis, FEAR and Doom 3. Gun shots were very crisp, while larger weapons still had their deeper tones. Ambient sounds were never over shadowed by the ‘closer’ sounds of your weapons or an Imp breathing down your neck, and left to right positional was dead on the money. I think, though, that I preferred these speakers to use with Black & White 2 than I did with the first person shooters – B&W2 is a very rich and ambient game as far as sound is concerned, and with my avid gaming, I tend to prefer the intimacy of a headset while engaged in a FPS. Which brings me to a drawback that really bugs me . . . there’s no headphone jack on either of the satellites or the subwoofer. You’ll be stuck with using your front panel port.

Overall, I’m very much impressed by the SoundSticks II, they’ve far surpassed my expectations of what they’re capable of, and I’m quite happy about letting them take over stereo duties in wake of my 5.1 setup kicking the bucket.

Pros:
*unique styling
*impressive frequency response
*easy setup
*powerful and clear

Cons:
*high price
*subwoofer design could potentially shorten the woofer’s lifespan if one’s not careful
*no headset jack

[Cold Storm]

that was a great review! i give you a 10 on that man. I have worked with both jbl and Infinity on there car divisions and They are some great products to work with. I don't think I would be buying these speakers because of the price, but the review was pretty nice!

[btarunr]

imperialreign,

please PM W1zzard/Darksaber and seek permission to post a full-fledge review in the review section along with all the pics, dissembly, performance, etc. your style of writing is very good, TPU needs reviews on its main site.

[Cold Storm]

+1 on that! the review was out of this world! Pretty nice I might say.

[imperialreign]

thanks, y'all - I PMed W1z with a copy of that review earlier for his consideration to the main site - I asked him the same thing I'll ask y'all now; if you see anything in that review that should be changed, re-worded, expanded upon or removed - let me know.

that was a great review! i give you a 10 on that man. I have worked with both jbl and Infinity on there car divisions and They are some great products to work with. I don't think I would be buying these speakers because of the price, but the review was pretty nice!

I've worked with JBL and Infinity car audio in the field, too - Infinity is the choice for Chrysler's premium sound systems, along with Nissan. JBL has excellent quality for their price range. TBH, my personal preference, though, is Pioneer car and home audio. I've heard some of their mid-range and lower end components blow top dollar equipment out of the water, on top of being able to withstand some extreme abuse.

Yeah, though, crazy price on those SoundSticks! Personally, I'd never buy a 2.1 setup for $200, as I think I'd personally be happier with a 4.1 or 5.1 setup for the same price - but, they were a gift, and I'm too considerate to turn something like that down. At least I don't have to spend any money out of my pocket to replace my dead 5.1 setup - maybe I'll determine what actually went bad and jimmy rig a 7.2 setup together :D

[EastCoasthandle]

who's willing to mod their x-fi (http://www.head-fi.org/forums/f46/hotrodding-x-fi-laymans-guide-no-56k-226975/)

[imperialreign]

who's willing to mod their x-fi (http://www.head-fi.org/forums/f46/hotrodding-x-fi-laymans-guide-no-56k-226975/)

I plan on it - but, I've been doing some more research into the differences between some of the components used on the board. Another TPU member, trodas (http://forums.techpowerup.com/member.php?u=34467), PMed me with some info that I found to be really helpful and makes a ton more sense than I've seen elsewhere . . . a link to another thread of his: http://capsmod.net/forum/viewthread.php?tid=94&extra=page%3D1

[btarunr]

That's one of the threads I'm reading for cap-modding my Xtreme Gamer. Just that I'm planning to use ECIL solid-state capacitors with the same properties.

And yes, I'm planning on a EMI shield mod, watch this thread.

[EastCoasthandle]

I plan on it - but, I've been doing some more research into the differences between some of the components used on the board. Another TPU member, trodas (http://forums.techpowerup.com/member.php?u=34467), PMed me with some info that I found to be really helpful and makes a ton more sense than I've seen elsewhere . . . a link to another thread of his: http://capsmod.net/forum/viewthread.php?tid=94&extra=page%3D1

You might want to read this (http://forums.overclockersclub.com/index.php?showtopic=71127) as well
Black Gate appear to be the best caps!

[btarunr]

You are very resourceful, EastCoastHandle :D

[imperialreign]

You might want to read this (http://forums.overclockersclub.com/index.php?showtopic=71127) as well
Black Gate appear to be the best caps!

yeah, I've seen that before, and I also intend to repace the OPAMPS. Although, I'm kinda leaning towards wanting to recap the board first, as I'm under the impression that to achieve the most out of a set of new OPAMPS, the caps should really be upgraded.

Asides, the power filter capacitor (closest to the APU) is starting to bulge ever so slightly at the top - she's on the way out and it'll need to be replaced fairly soon anyhow.


BTW, was wondering - does anyone know if the DAC is swappable with a better unit? In discussing things with trodas (http://forums.techpowerup.com/member.php?u=34467), I was getting the feeling that the DAC is probably the cause of a certain issue he's been having with the cards: http://forums.virtualdub.org/index.php?act=ST&f=7&t=15093&st=15#entry62170, and he's also had the same issue with the Live! series and the Audigy series - to the best of my knowledge, Creative has used the sam CS4382 DAC since the Live! era . . . the only X-Fi cards to not have it are the Xtreme Audio and the Elite Pro, and I've never heard of any similar type of problem with the Elite Pro . . .

I just wasn't sure if there is a better DAC unit that one could swap, or if replacing it will partially render the card useless . . .

[vexen]

Hello, i own a X-Fi Xtreme Gamer, and i was wonder if the use of CMSS-3D and 24Bit Crystalizer can lower my in-game performance.

If it does, is it worth it? Thanks.

I have Sennheisers HD555 mid/high end headphones ($120~200USD).

[btarunr]

Hello, i own a X-Fi Xtreme Gamer, and i was wonder if the use of CMSS-3D and 24Bit Crystalizer can lower my in-game performance.

If it does, is it worth it? Thanks.

I have Sennheisers HD555 mid/high end headphones ($120~200USD).

Hello Vexen, nice headphones.

CMSS-3D processing is carried out differently in different modes. In the Entertinment Mode, the driver directs the audio stack to be processed by the system CPU, same is the case with Crytalizer. However in the Game Mode, the CMSS-3D and Crytalizer DSP is processed by the X-Fi processor. This should very slightly affect the performance when a games does Hardware sample mixing, utilizes several hardware voices, EAX 5.0/4.0 HD processing, multichannel output. In a headphone scenario it shouldn't affect you at all since an application has never used 192 kHz sample rate for two output channels (stereo) and that's what X-Fi is all about.

http://images.americas.creative.com/images/products/inline/15913-body4_1_1_61.jpg

[vexen]

Hello again, thanks,

Would you recommend any audio benchmark i could test with/without CMSS etc.?

[btarunr]

Since you're evaluating the overall system performance being affected with/without using CMSS-3D/Crystalizer, I'd suggest an in-game benchmark where you measure the FPS count with/without the said. Use Battlefield 2 / Battlefield 2142 / F.E.A.R.. In BF2 make sure you set the audio renderer to "Creative X-Fi". Use FRAPS to measure the FPS count.

Oh yeah show us the results. :toast:

[vexen]

i will try this weekend with CoD4.

[btarunr]

CoD4 should be fine, remember to select HW Mixing/Audio in the audio options of whichever game you use that has the option.

BTW, I use the Creative HN-601 headphones. It costs just around $40 but is quite a bargain.

I'm being creative in being Creative fanboy :p

[imperialreign]

CoD4 should be fine, remember to select HW Mixing/Audio in the audio options of whichever game you use that has the option.

BTW, I use the Creative HN-601 headphones. It costs just around $40 but is quite a bargain.

I'm being creative in being Creative fanboy :p

those Creative are great for the price, and sound quite well too . . .

Still using an Altec Lansing AHS615 headset (~$50) . . . not bad, but I would like to upgrade to something a bit better.

BTW, Vexen . . . are you by chance using Vista or XP as your OS?

[imperialreign]

Well, an update on the front panel mod:

The pinout crossover I had come up with:

Here's the AC97/Azalia pinout, taken from Intel.com:

1 2
3 4
5 6
7 8
9 10

1 Mic_In - Front panel microphone input signal (biased when supporting stereo microphone)
2 Aud_GND - Ground used by analog
3 Mic_Bias - Microphone power / additional MIC input for stereo microphone support
4 Aud_GND - Ground used by analog audio circuits
5 FP_Out_R - Right channel audio signal to front panel (headphone drive capable)
6 FP_Return_R - Right channel audio signal return from front panel (when headphones unplugged)
7 AUD_5V - Filtered +5 V used by analog audio circuits
8 Key - No pin
9 FP_Out_L - Left channel audio signal to front panel (headphone drive capable)
10 FR_Return_L - Left channel audio signal return from front panel (when headphones unplugged)

and here's Creative's I/O drive pinout for Audigy/X-Fi (as best I've been able to research online):

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

1 - Analog ground
2 - Left out
3 - Audio backpanel mute (grounded with headphone jack plugged in - I think this is Left Return)
4 - Right out
5 - same as pin 3 (I think this is Right return)
6 - Mic In from front panel
7 - no pin
8 - VREF Mic out (voltage reference for mic)
9 - Mic In mute (ground when mic isn't plugged in, +12V with mic plugged in)
10 - Audio Detect (ground when headphones plugged in, not normally used)

Soooooo . . . I've figured this crossover from my AC97 connector to the X-Fi (I list the AC97 pin numbers in the X-Fi pinout configuration):

2 9 10 5 6 1 8 3 7 4



does indeed work with (as best I can tell) full compatibility. I have both left and right channels on my headset, stereo mic appears to be working correctly - headphone detect seems to be somewhat working . . . when you plug a headset in, the X-Fi mutes the output from the rear of the card to the primary speakers, but it doesn't enable headphone audio settings within the Audio Console :confused:. Possibly, two of the connectors need to be swapped, I dick with it some more tomorrow - it's quite possible, too, that the 'enable headphone settings' only works in conjunction with the X-Fi 5.25" front panel. As it is now, I can live with it, though.

I took some pics of my hack & slash mod - I removed the proprietary connector and pins from the board, and soldered in some motherboard pins (cause I'm too damn cheap to buy the correct connector :p). As I mentioned before, motherboard pins are a tad larger than the pins Creative used, so I had to narrow the ends of the pins going into the PCB with a dremel. Even still, once soldered into place, the pins are still a tad too close together for motherboard pin-style connectors, so I had to bend every other pin outwards :laugh: - it's a decent soldering job for what it is, and it works, it just looks a little . . . spartan, lol!

Anyhow, I'm going to work up a diagram of sorts sometime tomorrow. If anyone else is willing to use that pinout also, I'd really like some feedback that it's fully functional for anyone in need of HD capability before I post it as gospel to the front page.

Next mods up - heat spreader/EMI shield and LED replacement - whenever I can finish getting the materials needed.



<edit>:

http://img138.imageshack.us/img138/3922/fppinoutco0.jpg


anyone else willing to try it - I'd like some more feedback if possible :toast:

[Preacher35]

Wow, glad to find this forum club. Having issues with my Vista install and X-Fi and hoping you all can help.

Here's what I've got:
Intel X6800, BFG 680i mobo, 2 BFG 8800GTX in SLI, X-Fi Fatality (original Fatality issue w/IO panel & remote), 2gb of Corsair PC9136, Vista Ultimate OS, Logitech Z5500 surround 5.1 setup

So, from the day I installed Vista, and the Creative supplied X-Fi/Vista compatible drivers, my speaker/channel assignments were all screwed up. I went into the THX console and through extensive finaggling, got the assignments to work OK. It's been about three weeks now, and suddenly, after booting up my PC one morning, the assignments in Game mode are all screwed up again. So, back to the THX console I went. This time, however, There is no
sound channel for the front right speaker. I can, however get sound to come out of thefront right speaker if I assign a different channel to it, just not the correct front right channel. So, I completely removed the drivers and all bundled software and reinstalled... same problem. I checked, of course all cables and Z5500 equipment through ancillary means and all check out fine. It's been three days of frustration and irritation. I'm considering going back to XP and sacrifice DX10. Any ideas or possible solutions?


Thanks,
Preacher

[imperialreign]

Wow, glad to find this forum club. Having issues with my Vista install and X-Fi and hoping you all can help.

Here's what I've got:
Intel X6800, BFG 680i mobo, 2 BFG 8800GTX in SLI, X-Fi Fatality (original Fatality issue w/IO panel & remote), 2gb of Corsair PC9136, Vista Ultimate OS, Logitech Z5500 surround 5.1 setup

So, from the day I installed Vista, and the Creative supplied X-Fi/Vista compatible drivers, my speaker/channel assignments were all screwed up. I went into the THX console and through extensive finaggling, got the assignments to work OK. It's been about three weeks now, and suddenly, after booting up my PC one morning, the assignments in Game mode are all screwed up again. So, back to the THX console I went. This time, however, There is no
sound channel for the front right speaker. I can, however get sound to come out of thefront right speaker if I assign a different channel to it, just not the correct front right channel. So, I completely removed the drivers and all bundled software and reinstalled... same problem. I checked, of course all cables and Z5500 equipment through ancillary means and all check out fine. It's been three days of frustration and irritation. I'm considering going back to XP and sacrifice DX10. Any ideas or possible solutions?


Thanks,
Preacher

By any chance have you tried installing the ALchemy drivers along with the Vista drivers? http://us.creative.com/support/downloads/download.asp?DriverLang=1033&searchString=ALXF_PCVTAPP_LB_1_00_30.exe&x=22&y=22&details=1

And, to be sure, you also have your speaker selection in the audio console set to 5.1, correct?

I've heard that in these instances, sometimes swaping the jacks around on the back of the card works, too - to the best of my understanding, this is a common Vista problem, and it resolves around how Vista interacts with the architecture of the card, which is why you lose channels, or they get swapped around.

Curious, did you ever have any issues in XP while also running the 2x 8800 in either single or SLI setup?

[btarunr]

I guess it has more to do with his speaker polarity. Both the card and his speaker set are THX compliant, he should fiddle with different speaker polarity settings in the THX console. ALchemy only pertains to DirectSound applications that do multichannel. Those apps that do wave_out or OpenAL instead of DirectSound aren't affected.

[imperialreign]

Come to think of it, also - all settings in the Creative/THX console will change whenever going from one mode to the next, and each mode utilizes the card's hardware differently - and that directly affects output to each individual channel . . .


@preacher35 - does the loss of audio from your speakers only happen when in one audio mode, or all 3?

[Preacher35]

Imperialreign, thanks for replying. The channel assignments stay static regardless of application/task. But, let's cover our bases.

-Yes, I definately have the Creative Console speaker set up set to 5.1
-No, I do not have the Alchemy software installed, but for the last 3 weeks, it hasn't been an issue. But, I think that btarunr is correct, in that Alchemy is only utilized in Directsound applications.
-No, I did not have these issues w/XP however, I did not have the dual 8800GTX cards w/XP either as, of course, I wanted to utilize DX10. I have read other posts that the proximity of the 8800GTX to the PCI slot containing the X-Fi can be an issue, but I thought that was more related to the "crackling and popping" sounds.

What's interesting is that a few days ago, when I lost my front right channel, it was only in Game mode. Entertainment mode had all channel assignments correct and present. After I reinstalled the Creative drivers, the Entertainment mode was missing the center channel. Go figure. I used to be an "onboard" sound guy, but have been spoiled by the X-Fi card. Am I really in the position of having to choose DX10 or X-Fi? This sucks.

[btarunr]

Make sure you have these values in the THX setup console, keep changing the speaker polarity setting (in the "Speaker Selection" tab) till you get all your speakers working.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2153/2202839095_ecce07c434_o.jpg

[imperialreign]

Imperialreign, thanks for replying. The channel assignments stay static regardless of application/task. But, let's cover our bases.

-Yes, I definately have the Creative Console speaker set up set to 5.1
-No, I do not have the Alchemy software installed, but for the last 3 weeks, it hasn't been an issue. But, I think that btarunr is correct, in that Alchemy is only utilized in Directsound applications.
-No, I did not have these issues w/XP however, I did not have the dual 8800GTX cards w/XP either as, of course, I wanted to utilize DX10. I have read other posts that the proximity of the 8800GTX to the PCI slot containing the X-Fi can be an issue, but I thought that was more related to the "crackling and popping" sounds.

What's interesting is that a few days ago, when I lost my front right channel, it was only in Game mode. Entertainment mode had all channel assignments correct and present. After I reinstalled the Creative drivers, the Entertainment mode was missing the center channel. Go figure. I used to be an "onboard" sound guy, but have been spoiled by the X-Fi card. Am I really in the position of having to choose DX10 or X-Fi? This sucks.


I was wondering on the ALchemy thing, as I thought it was only happening in game mode, but, anyhow . . . you don't leave EAX effects on in every mode, do you? btarunr is right about the ALchemy drivers with DirectSound, but, IIRC, it also affects any usage of audio hardware acceleration beyond just DirectSound applications.

I'd try checking over the polarity settings in the THX console if you can, as btarunr recommended (I hadn't realized from your first post). Another thought, too, open up the audio & sound control panel in WIN, and make sure that volume settings for seperate channels are up, too. I've had a couple of time where WIN for some unknown reason, drops volume of one channel to 0%-5%, and I always overlook checking it first :laugh:

TBH, what you're describing doesn't sound to me to be any type of EMI issue from the card being too close to the 8800s - I was looking more along the lines of two powerful GPUs combined with an nForce motherboard. Not everyone has had problems with nVidia hardware, though, and your issue doesn't really sound like the usual complaint with nVidia hardware - so no worries, there.

[Preacher35]

Hey, I truly appreciate both of you helping me out on this. I haven't looked in the Win properties for individual channel volumes (I had no idea that Vista contained such capability). I will also try playing around with the polarities tonight as you recommended and report back. As I'm sure that this is the same with you, I love my X-Fi card more than pretty much anything else in my rig and would be hard to live without.


Thanks again

[btarunr]

http://global.msi.com.tw/images/logo.gif

Creative X-Fi technology has penetrated into a variety of products ranging primarily from Sound-cards to headphones, external audio filters and now even motherboards. This isn't for the first time that MSI (Micro-Star International) is incorporating X-Fi audio into its motherboard audio subsystem, the MSI P7N Diamond is their latest board. It's based on the NVidia NForce 780i SLI chipset. More details on this board can be found on the company website here (http://global.msi.com.tw/index.php?func=proddesc&prod_no=1372&maincat_no=1#).

With manufacturers cramming more and more features into today's high-end motherboards, the PCB's are definitely running out of space for the audio subsystem. Hence several manufacturers such as ASUS, DFI, Abit are opting the use of audio riser cards. An audio riser simply put is a tiny expansion card with all the onboard audio circuitry you'd otherwise find on the main PCB of the motherboard. This usually includes an Intel Azalia specs. compliant CODEC chip, its power circuit, input headers for CD/Aux in, digital in ; has the external connectors of the analogue out and usually the coaxial/optical SPDIF IO. In some boards such as the ASUS ROG series, the SPDIF connectors are on the main PCB.

The X-Fi Xtreme Audio that comes with the MSI P7N Diamond isn't an audio riser but a fully discrete card PCI-E card that goes into any PCI-E slot. This design has many flaws however.

Take a close look at the board layout and that of the card:

http://c1.neweggimages.com/NeweggImage/productimage/13-130-158-05.jpg
http://c1.neweggimages.com/NeweggImage/productimage/13-130-158-10.jpg

...and how you're supposed to install them...

http://global.msi.com.tw/uploads/prod_2aa7219ed84b0c46bbc43fbda17df86e.jpg

:wtf:

The card is a full-height expansion card that ideally would go into the first PCI-E x1 slot in which case the video-card won't fit (into the first PCI-E x16 slot).

Let's say I have to install three cards into a tri-SLI (I can't in reality but just assume:o). I lose out on all options of an audio subsystem.

A. The first slot is blocked with this card on the second x1 slot.
B. Even if I use three cards into the first, second and fourth x16 slots with this audio card in the second x1 slot, I'll have trouble with the SLI interconnect defeating the purpose of a 780i based board.
C. How can I use tri-SLI anyway with such a bundle :wtf:?
http://c1.neweggimages.com/NeweggImage/productimage/13-130-158-07.jpg


All in all the card seems a decent thing, it's based on the design methodology of the X-Fi Xtreme Audio PCI-Express but in the context of this board, the design is extremely flawed thanks to the shabby PCB layout of the board. Mind you, this card doesn't have the CA-20K1 processor meaning no EAX 4.0 HD / 5.0 HD acceleration but you still get the Crystalizer and CMSS-3D.

I rather compliment the older MSI board that implemented X-Fi, the P6N Diamond (http://global.msi.com.tw/index.php?func=proddesc&prod_no=1168&maincat_no=1&cat2_no=170) based on the NForce 680i. Isn't that a much more sensible PCB design now:rolleyes:?

http://global.msi.com.tw/uploads/prod_73708180386aa254ea643aa20ae243ef.jpg

[imperialreign]

it seems quite a few motherboard manufacturers are heading the route of an x1 style PCB - although that MSI is the first I've seen brandishing the X-Fi name. That is a crappy layout on MSI's part, though - it's as if the audio was an afterthought.

But, they do this for their "performance" motherboards to isolate the chipset from the motherboard PCB itself to eliminate EMI issues from the mobo componentry, but still want to cram the riser card butt-up against the primary PCIE slot :shadedshu

MSI deserves a :slap: for that one

[dwax]

I have the Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi XtremeMusic. still have the drivers from the disk installed. Do you have to uninstall the old ones before you update to new drivers?

[imperialreign]

I have the Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi XtremeMusic. still have the drivers from the disk installed. Do you have to uninstall the old ones before you update to new drivers?

you shouldn't have to;

although, if you are using Vista, I'd recommend doing so. You should be alright if running XP.

[imperialreign]

Hey, I truly appreciate both of you helping me out on this. I haven't looked in the Win properties for individual channel volumes (I had no idea that Vista contained such capability). I will also try playing around with the polarities tonight as you recommended and report back. As I'm sure that this is the same with you, I love my X-Fi card more than pretty much anything else in my rig and would be hard to live without.


Thanks again

any developments to getting your audio straightened out?

[Preacher35]

:banghead: No. I've tried all of your appreciated suggestions, but the channel issue is worse now then before. I've tried playing with polarities, swapping cables, making adjustments in the control panel. No dice. At the moment, I'm back to onboard sound and that is messed up as well (no center channel and front left is coming out of the center channel speaker). I'm confident that this is a Vista issue. I guess, I'm gonna have to sacrifice DX10 and switch back to XP.

[imperialreign]

:banghead: No. I've tried all of your appreciated suggestions, but the channel issue is worse now then before. I've tried playing with polarities, swapping cables, making adjustments in the control panel. No dice. At the moment, I'm back to onboard sound and that is messed up as well (no center channel and front left is coming out of the center channel speaker). I'm confident that this is a Vista issue. I guess, I'm gonna have to sacrifice DX10 and switch back to XP.

odd that onboard audio is doing the same thing you were having issues with the X-Fi, considering those are two different styles of audio playback and drivers are different.

By chance, the issue you are currently having with your onboard audio, is it exactly the same as with the X-Fi card, or are there differences?

If it is exactly the same, I'd reason to say that the problem might possibly be with your speakers - in this case, I'd recommend trying another set if you have them, or, try hooking your speaker setup to some other form of device, like a TV, DVD player, DVR, stereo, etc. If the problem is still apparent, the speakers themselves might be defective - rare, but not entirelly impossible either.

[btarunr]

Do this: Keep the card in 5.1 ch setting, use a pair of stereo headphones, plug it in all the three jacks of the sound card and see if you're getting any sound with the multichannel demo.

[DaMulta]

So I bought this today

http://images.americas.creative.com/images/products/large/15913.png

Plugs in via USB and installs all the drivers via windows. USB X-Fi sound card that works in ALL GAMES!!!

So far I'm loving this thing.


Games sound better.

Youtube sounds better

Higher volume

X-Fi works in all things.

Bad
USB power plug sold sep..



Do you guys think there is anyway to install Xfi soft for this?

[DaMulta]

Oh I also picked up a pair of these.

http://shop.sennheiserusa.com/retail2002/images/catalog/RS130_normal.jpg

Short Description
The RS 130 wireless RF headphone system with switchable surround sound is an ideal choice for both hi-fi and TV use. The lightweight RS 130 lets you enjoy freedom of movement from any audio source. In addition, the transmitter features a convenient metal stand for storing and recharging the headphones.
Features
Open, circumaural wireless stereo RF headphone system
For hi-fi and TV use
Switchable SRS surround sound mode
Intelligent auto-tuning with memory function
Self-learning automatic level control provides optimum signal reception
Very lightweight headphones, extremely comfortable to wear
Easy recharging: simply hang the headphones onto the charging cradle
Rechargeable NiMH batteries included
Supports the use of multiple headphones receiving the RF signal from one transmitter.
Delivery includes transmitter, power cable, audio cable and headphones
Connects to RCA jacks (red and white outputs), 1/8" and 1/4" headphone sockets (anything with a headphone jack including laptop and desktop computers!)

http://www.sennheiserusa.com/newsite/productdetail.asp?transid=009925


I can go all over the house and no wires to get wrapped up in my chair.

[imperialreign]

So I bought this today

http://images.americas.creative.com/images/products/large/15913.png

Plugs in via USB and installs all the drivers via windows. USB X-Fi sound card that works in ALL GAMES!!!

So far I'm loving this thing.


Games sound better.

Youtube sounds better

Higher volume

X-Fi works in all things.

Bad
USB power plug sold sep..



Do you guys think there is anyway to install Xfi soft for this?


maybe, but the software the is part of the X-Fi driver package I don't think would work at all. But, you should be able to dl the other Creative software from their website, I would think . . . you bought it brand new? It didn't come with a diks of creative software at all?

Oh I also picked up a pair of these.



Short Description
The RS 130 wireless RF headphone system with switchable surround sound is an ideal choice for both hi-fi and TV use. The lightweight RS 130 lets you enjoy freedom of movement from any audio source. In addition, the transmitter features a convenient metal stand for storing and recharging the headphones.
Features
Open, circumaural wireless stereo RF headphone system
For hi-fi and TV use
Switchable SRS surround sound mode
Intelligent auto-tuning with memory function
Self-learning automatic level control provides optimum signal reception
Very lightweight headphones, extremely comfortable to wear
Easy recharging: simply hang the headphones onto the charging cradle
Rechargeable NiMH batteries included
Supports the use of multiple headphones receiving the RF signal from one transmitter.
Delivery includes transmitter, power cable, audio cable and headphones
Connects to RCA jacks (red and white outputs), 1/8" and 1/4" headphone sockets (anything with a headphone jack including laptop and desktop computers!)

http://www.sennheiserusa.com/newsite...transid=009925


I can go all over the house and no wires to get wrapped up in my chair.

how well do they sound? Do get any loss of signla at all, or is it a constant strong signal? TBH, I've always been a bit leary of wireless headsets, but technology has changed a lot over the alst year or two

[DaMulta]

They sound good when sound is going on. When sound is off you can hear a slight noise, not a bad noise tho. Granted I'm supposed to charge them for 16 hours and I turned them on out of the box the batteries could need more charge. I have walked maybe 30-50 feet away with good sound. O they charge on the set which was a major plus to this.

I have a pair of hd 465, and I think these wireless are better than them in ways.


For the Xmod I found there is new firmware on creatives website, maybe this is how the drivers are installed? There is no CD, no soft no notting that comes with this X-Fi it's a plug in and windows install type of hardware. Tomb Radier the game I have tried it with so far is much better now, and I can hear things that I didn't hear before in the game.

[DaMulta]

COD4=fantastic sound now!!!!!

[btarunr]

COD4=fantastic sound now!!!!!

Aah...finally you guys are realising the importance / benefits of X-Fi Technology on gaming. Try BF 2142. You're listening to CoD 4 in EAX 3.0 Advanced HD.

Yes, the X-Mod is very ideal when you're in a multi-GPU setup not being able to install a PCI card or if you use the USB port as in notebooks or the PC itself. It offers the same X-Fi Crystalizer and CMSS-3D. The signal processing however is carried out by the system CPU.

Doom 3 with EAX 4.0 HD pwns:rockout:

[DaMulta]

I had a X-Fi fatilty that I sold because 2 out of 3 motherboards it would snap crackle pop.


I just need to find a mixer for this thing.

Well with this I can go to my 5.1 with my onboard, and headphones with this. I'm on headphones 98% of the time.

[imperialreign]

I had a X-Fi fatilty that I sold because 2 out of 3 motherboards it would snap crackle pop.


I just need to find a mixer for this thing.

Well with this I can go to my 5.1 with my onboard, and headphones with this. I'm on headphones 98% of the time.

The newer X-Fi revisions don't tend to have as much of a problem with hardware conflicts or overheating issues. Updated PCBs and firmware have done wonders for them.

I can't think of any really good and free software mixers . . .

although, seeings as how you have Realtek HD, the driver package should come with a software mixer and all, right? Or are you looking for something that directly interfaces with the X-Mod, instead of adjusting output settings?

Awesome, though, that you have such great range with that headset! I remember when some of the early wireless headsets first came out, they were very receptive to interference and all.

COD4=fantastic sound now!!!!!

why I stress to people (especially gamers) that nothing beats out the EAX capability of X-Fi products. Enjoy it man! :toast:

Yes, the X-Mod is very ideal when you're in a multi-GPU setup not being able to install a PCI card or if you use the USB port as in notebooks or the PC itself. It offers the same X-Fi Crystalizer and CMSS-3D. The signal processing however is carried out by the system CPU.

Doom 3 with EAX 4.0 HD pwns

Doom3 with EAX4HD + OpenAL :toast:

[trodas]

I just want to report there as X-Fi owner (at lest till I kill the card by modding it too much :rolleyes:) and now off to reading some interesting things in this thread :p :D

Good work there, imperialreign ;) I do wonder how the custom drivers for X-Fi works, compared to the Creative ones that are mostly major pain in the a$$ :o

[mab1376]

I have an X-fi Xtreme music which is had RMA'd through creative for random thumps through the subwoofer of my Logitech Z-5500's I also had the speakers RMA'd and it is still happening, is it possible its doing this due to "dirty power"?

If so which power cleaner would you recommend? a Monster brand one or something else?

[imperialreign]

I have an X-fi Xtreme music which is had RMA'd through creative for random thumps through the subwoofer of my Logitech Z-5500's I also had the speakers RMA'd and it is still happening, is it possible its doing this due to "dirty power"?

If so which power cleaner would you recommend? a Monster brand one or something else?

Hmmm . . . I don't really think it's either the X-Fi, nor the speakers themself . . . going to need some more in-depth info, there; Are you're speakers connected through minijacks, RCA or S/PDIF?
When does it typically occur, when the PC is on or off, when the subwoofer is on or off?


It's possible voltage spikes through the line might cause the woofer to kick, but, if it happens at somewhat regular intervals, it might be power electrical interference - a central HVAC unit can cause this, as well as most modern appliances. If you leave anywhere near a public utilites lot of some sort, that too could cause problems. TBH, I'd recommend a good, high-end surge protector any how, as that will help control most of it - if it's still present, a power conditioner might be in order, also.

Also, as I'm not sure the exact capabilities of that speaker setup; do they have some kind of energy saving feature, where they go into a 'standby' mode if not being used for a while? If so, it's quite possible the kick you're hearing is from the sub turning on and then back off.

But, I must ask also, are there any high powered wireless phones near the unit? A WiFi network router? Do you charge your cell phone near by the subwoofer, especially with it being on? If so, you might want to remove these items from the room, and see if the woofer is still randomly kicking.

[DaMulta]

You should add the budget Xmod to the list:).

So far I'm loving this, and for the people that only install drivers with no soft I think this would almost be better for them. BUT they would need to be a 2.0 or headphone user like myself.

[imperialreign]

You should add the budget Xmod to the list:).

So far I'm loving this, and for the people that only install drivers with no soft I think this would almost be better for them. BUT they would need to be a 2.0 or headphone user like myself.

I might add it in, external X-Fi solution and all . . . BTW, how much did it cost? I might pick one up sometime soon, just to be able to compare it myself to a true-blooded PCI card; at least to be able to answer anyone's questions about them . . .

Curious - what exactly would you compare the audio quality to? I mean, is it up to snuff with a standard internal PCI card, or not so much?

I figured it's aimed more at those that are more interested in ipod/mp3/wma playback and watching some streaming vids or TV on their rig . . . what's your thoughts?

[DaMulta]

http://www.circuitcity.com/ccd/productDetail.do?oid=161713&WT.mc_n=4&WT.mc_t=U&cm_ven=COMPARISON%20SHOPPING&cm_cat=GOOGLE&cm_pla=DATAFEED-%3EPRODUCTS&cm_ite=1%20PRODUCT&cm_keycode=4

40usd there.

What are my thoughts. Well the CMSS-CD I missed a whole lot with headphones. That tech helps so much on things it's not even funny for me. I had to sell my old X-FI card because of the motherboard problems. You say that went away, but I'm not sold on that. For the money yes this thing is worth it. In movies you can use AS3-Filter for an eq, but I haven't found one for this yet. You can plug this in to an onboard sound, but you need to have a USB power to do that. That might sound better because of the EQ. Now I haven't tried any EAX games to see if you can use them with this after this movie I'm watching I might see what Bf2 does.

[btarunr]

Reviews suggest the X-Mod to have the same output quality as any other X-Fi product from Creative. We must remember that the term X-Fi (eXtreme Fidelity) doesn't apply only to sound-cards but a whole range of products that implement Creative's proprietary technologies. The Aurvana X-Fi (http://us.creative.com/products/product.asp?category=437&subcategory=439&product=16975&WT.cg_n=Campaigns&WT.mc_id=8533) is a superb noise-canceling headphone that implements X-Fi (as in X-Fi Crystalizer and CMSS-3D inside a headphone) so you can even make a tiny Xen Stone player knock off even an iPod in terms of output. Another feat of this headphones is its incredibly light-weight. I'm sounding like a salesman now but I promise I'm going to buy it next. The only glitch is..it costs way more than a Bose QC II (but is better than it) even more than a X-Fi Elite Pro sound card :shadedshu .

http://www.tecnosquad.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/09/creativeaurvanax-fi-lg.jpg


An extremely viable aternative to the Aurvana X-Fi if you're on a PC would be Creative HN-602 + X-Fi X-Mod

[imperialreign]

http://www.circuitcity.com/ccd/productDetail.do?oid=161713&WT.mc_n=4&WT.mc_t=U&cm_ven=COMPARISON%20SHOPPING&cm_cat=GOOGLE&cm_pla=DATAFEED-%3EPRODUCTS&cm_ite=1%20PRODUCT&cm_keycode=4

40usd there.

What are my thoughts. Well the CMSS-CD I missed a whole lot with headphones. That tech helps so much on things it's not even funny for me. I had to sell my old X-FI card because of the motherboard problems. You say that went away, but I'm not sold on that. For the money yes this thing is worth it. In movies you can use AS3-Filter for an eq, but I haven't found one for this yet. You can plug this in to an onboard sound, but you need to have a USB power to do that. That might sound better because of the EQ. Now I haven't tried any EAX games to see if you can use them with this after this movie I'm watching I might see what Bf2 does.

I might just pick one up then within the next few weeks then; if nothing else it might make listening to stuff on my gf's PC a bit more enjoyable :D

Asides, I think being able to have a comparison here, running the external solution through a HD onboard vs a X-Fi internal solution would be worth it, also.


Reviews suggest the X-Mod to have the same output quality as any other X-Fi product from Creative. We must remember that the term X-Fi (eXtreme Fidelity) doesn't apply only to sound-cards but a whole range of products that implement Creative's proprietary technologies, the Aurvana X-Fi (http://us.creative.com/products/product.asp?category=437&subcategory=439&product=16975&WT.cg_n=Campaigns&WT.mc_id=8533) is a superb noise-canceling headphone that implements X-Fi (as in X-Fi Crystalizer and CMSS-3D inside a headphone) so you can even make a tiny Xen Stone player knock off even an iPod in terms of output. Another feat of this headphones is its incredibly light-weight. I'm sounding like a salesman now but I promise I'm going to buy it next. The only glitch is..it costs way more than a Bose QC II (but is better than it) even more than a X-Fi Elite Pro sound card :shadedshu .

. . . .


+1

Had a chance to use a set yet?! Good friggin lord, man - they left me speechless as far as a headset is concerned. Simply unbelievable. They're on my wish-list, for sure, but it'll be a long ways off before I snag a pair.

Plus, Creative's CMSS-3D is a major selling point for their equipment; and the only thing I can say to others to really describe it, is they must hear to really believe what it is capable of.

[DaMulta]

What I would like to know is how many sounds this thing can produce at one time, seeing that I'm plugged in USB with this thing. Creative didn't really make this for PCs, but they did put it there, just with no software. I really wish they gave some kind of soft controls with this.

[imperialreign]

What I would like to know is how many sounds this thing can produce at one time, seeing that I'm plugged in USB with this thing. Creative didn't really make this for PCs, but they did put it there, just with no software. I really wish they gave some kind of soft controls with this.

not sure . . . you mean, if it's capable of 5.1 or 7.1? Or do you mean sounds as in the actual number of audio voices (files) being played back through the speakers? If this is the case, I'd fathom to say it's probably limited by what the audio chipset is capable of . . . not really sure just yet, though . . .

[DaMulta]

sounds as in the actual number of audio voices

The X-Fi can do 127 sounds at one time.

[btarunr]

Since it's software-accelerated, the X-Fi driver allows 65535 software voices, and that's way above the Microsoft WDM specifications for software-accelerated audio.

[btarunr]

That's actually supposed to be 64 * 1024 but always remember, the last voice is reserved. Even in the CA-20K1 powered cards you have 127 hardware voice + 65535 software and not 128 + 65536 though the last voices exist.

That's Xtreme Gamer in the attachment notice the OpenAL driver got initialised before the intro music file (mono, ~48 kbps ogg-vorbis)

[imperialreign]

That's actually supposed to be 64 * 1024 but always remember, the last voice is reserved. Even in the CA-20K1 powered cards you have 127 hardware voice + 65535 software and not 128 + 65536 though the last voices exist.

That's Xtreme Gamer in the attachment notice the OpenAL driver got initialised before the intro music file (mono, ~48 kbps ogg-vorbis)

OpenAL is a great hardware extension in itself, also . . . but, it's another one of those things that's dependant on developer support, much like EAX.

Although, Vista being the way it is, I think more devs are joining the OpenAL movement, as it works around the OS much better than the ALchemy drivers do.

[btarunr]

OpenAL is an api, much like DirectSound. EAX are extensions of OpenAL, including the X-RAM parser (the software code that allows applications to read/write/use the X-RAM).

When an application uses OpenAL instead of DirectSound to interact with the audio hardware, the features/capabilities of the audio hardware exist in the form of 'extensions' much like how the hardware capabilities of a GPU are interacted by the OpenGL's GL extensions.

Unlike OpenGL, OpenAL doesn't have a well-defined ARB (Architecture Review Board) and hence the dominant players (users of the API), Creative Labs, defines the standards. The EAX HD (4.0, 5.0) are exclusive for Creative and are hardware-specific OpenAL extensions while other features such as positionAL and EAX 2.0 are free for use by any hardware vendor and count as ARB extensions. Remember those GL_arb_ openGL extensions? And that NVidia and ATI came up with their own hardware specific extension (such as GL_NV_distancefog and GL_ATI_truform) ? same case here.


The interesting fact is ALchemy infact emulates DirectSound while being and OpenAL extension. So since Vista takes OpenAL, all DirectSound apps are able to use their features thru OpenAL.

[hat]

That's actually supposed to be 64 * 1024 but always remember, the last voice is reserved. Even in the CA-20K1 powered cards you have 127 hardware voice + 65535 software and not 128 + 65536 though the last voices exist.

That's Xtreme Gamer in the attachment notice the OpenAL driver got initialised before the intro music file (mono, ~48 kbps ogg-vorbis)

Man I only have 64 voices :(

[tigger]

Yeah,them headphones are nice,but they're £207 in the uk:twitch:.However nice they are,they can shove em up there ass for that price.Rip off britain strikes again:banghead:

[btarunr]

I feel sorry for you Britts. UK needs some serious trade reforms. The economy is strong, just that the import duty, VAT, etc suck.

[mab1376]

Hmmm . . . I don't really think it's either the X-Fi, nor the speakers themself . . . going to need some more in-depth info, there; Are you're speakers connected through minijacks, RCA or S/PDIF?
When does it typically occur, when the PC is on or off, when the subwoofer is on or off?


It's possible voltage spikes through the line might cause the woofer to kick, but, if it happens at somewhat regular intervals, it might be power electrical interference - a central HVAC unit can cause this, as well as most modern appliances. If you leave anywhere near a public utilites lot of some sort, that too could cause problems. TBH, I'd recommend a good, high-end surge protector any how, as that will help control most of it - if it's still present, a power conditioner might be in order, also.

Also, as I'm not sure the exact capabilities of that speaker setup; do they have some kind of energy saving feature, where they go into a 'standby' mode if not being used for a while? If so, it's quite possible the kick you're hearing is from the sub turning on and then back off.

But, I must ask also, are there any high powered wireless phones near the unit? A WiFi network router? Do you charge your cell phone near by the subwoofer, especially with it being on? If so, you might want to remove these items from the room, and see if the woofer is still randomly kicking.

They are connected through the mini-jacks ATM, although i would like to get the i/o module and use optical, i usually notice it when the pc is on doing non-audio related tasks, but it has happened when the pc was off which is why I RMA'd the speakers first. ATM there is no wireless router in my house, but there is a 2.4GHz wireless phone and multiple cell phones, but for the most part the thumps are pretty uniform in the loudness and gap between them.

i'll try getting a good surge bar seeing as my current one is from 1997.

also off topic: how do you like the Azuntech X-FI prelude, for that fact is any card with X-RAM worth it?

[thegave]

Fack yes my XtremeMusic finally arrived today.

Imp, may I join?

[tigger]

The x-fi cant do 5.1 through the optical/coaxial can it? I think there is a way to get coaxial through the digital out jack.I've not tried it,but i heard it dont do 5.1 from digi out.I have mine connected to my sony av amp via analogue jacks because of this.

[thegave]

Are there any special modded drivers I should consider like YouPax or kX or should I just stick with Creative's?

[btarunr]

Stick to the latest drivers from Creative's website. They're the most stable drivers yet.

[imperialreign]

They are connected through the mini-jacks ATM, although i would like to get the i/o module and use optical, i usually notice it when the pc is on doing non-audio related tasks, but it has happened when the pc was off which is why I RMA'd the speakers first. ATM there is no wireless router in my house, but there is a 2.4GHz wireless phone and multiple cell phones, but for the most part the thumps are pretty uniform in the loudness and gap between them.

i'll try getting a good surge bar seeing as my current one is from 1997.

also off topic: how do you like the Azuntech X-FI prelude, for that fact is any card with X-RAM worth it?

Well, if you're cordless phone is installed in the room, you might want to relocate it just to be sure - anything that generates a RFID signal could potentially interefere with a subwoofer . . . but I think a good surge protector should help.

As to the Prelude - I honestly couldn't tell you how I like it, as I don't have one. You'd have to ask btarunr. The Prelude is known for completely blowing all of Creative's cards out of the water in terms of audio quality, though.

Fack yes my XtremeMusic finally arrived today.

Imp, may I join?

. . .

Are there any special modded drivers I should consider like YouPax or kX or should I just stick with Creative's?

sure, no prob.

I agree with bta on this - Creative's drivers are the most stable. All the modded drivers came about from people who were trying to "unlock" features of the cards that Creative doesn't offer through their drivers, or were trying to fix issues that Creative hadn't addressed at the time.

[thegave]

I agree with bta on this - Creative's drivers are the most stable.

Is that only the official drivers (dated 10/30/06... That seems like ages ago) or are the Creative Beta drivers (dated 1/9/08) ok too?

[imperialreign]

Is that only the official drivers (dated 10/30/06... That seems like ages ago) or are the Creative Beta drivers (dated 1/9/08) ok too?

Yeah, those are the most current. TBH, I haven't had any issues with the aplha drivers - beta drivers are worth installing only if you're having issues that can't be resolved. Creative has a bad habit of not specifiying what the beta drivers are trying to address.

I'm hoping within the next couple of months we'll see new X-Fi drivers for the XP OS. After Vista was launched, Creative has been focusing solely on thos drivers sets - which is why it's been so long since the last XP update . . . but the existance of beta XP drivers means that we'll see another alpha driver release at some point.

[DaMulta]

Well my Xmod is not an X-Fi in games. In BF2 I can't use the X-Fi, but I can use hardware EAX on high. In King Kong the game will not let me use the EAX option. I don't know about openAL as of yet.

[imperialreign]

Well my Xmod is not an X-Fi in games. In BF2 I can't use the X-Fi, but I can use hardware EAX on high. In King Kong the game will not let me use the EAX option. I don't know about openAL as of yet.

I'm guessing you're on Vista?

It might be possible you only have the onboard EAX2.0 capability + whatever the X-Mod can deliver with Crystallizer and positional audio.

Curious, does the OS recognize the X-Mod as an external audio card, though?

[btarunr]

X-Mod supports upto EAX 3.0 , it doesn't come with the X-Fi hardware audio renderer, its featuresets are comparable to the Xtreme Audio.

[DaMulta]

I'm guessing you're on Vista?

It might be possible you only have the onboard EAX2.0 capability + whatever the X-Mod can deliver with Crystallizer and positional audio.

Curious, does the OS recognize the X-Mod as an external audio card, though?

XP Pro 32bit

[Russtavo]

I hope someone can save my sanity and help me with this problem! :banghead: I have my new HTPC connected to my amp with Coax S/PDIF. Applications such as Windows Media Player are sending the correct multi-channel streams as my amp displays "Dolby Digital" or "DTS" depending on the source. One major problem: PowerDVD outputs NO sound whatsoever when I change the audio settings to "S/PDIF". If I set it to anything else (e.g. "2 Speaker", "6 speaker") I just get stereo sound. My suspition is a compatibility issue between PowerDVD and my X-Fi Sound Blaster drivers. Here's my system spec:

PC: Dell Vostro 200 Slim
OS: Vista Ultimate 32-bit SP1
Graphics: ASUS Radeon HD 3450 (Catalyst 8.2)
Audio: Sound Blaster X-Fi Xtreme Audio (latest drivers)
Display: Sony Bravia KDL-32D3000
Amp: Denon AVR-3802
PowerDVD Ultra: 7.3.3730.0
LG GGW-H20L Blu-Ray/HDDVD Combo Drive

I have disabled the onboard Relatek audio, and disabled the High-Def Audio on the graphics card.

I've done screengrabs of all relevant settings/info, they are here:

http://demon.xssl.net/~admin2/spdif/index.htm

I've e-mailed Cyberlink support but they are s-l-o-w, and not helpful. I want to play Blu-Ray and HD-DVD discs, so I really need PowerDVD to work. Any help is really appreciated.

[tigger]

sorry i cant help,but i will say,niiice amp.I have my x-fi connected to a sony 5.1 amp,by analouge cables coz i'm not even sure if the x-fi can output 5.1 through the optical digital out.Plus i play a lot of games and need the 5.1 sound.

I'm sure someone will be able to help tho'

[Russtavo]

Thanks, it does output 5.1 very nicely through it's coaxial out (the X-Fi Gamer is the one with optical Out). Only PowerDVD is spoiling my party :-(

[imperialreign]

I hope someone can save my sanity and help me with this problem! :banghead: I have my new HTPC connected to my amp with Coax S/PDIF. Applications such as Windows Media Player are sending the correct multi-channel streams as my amp displays "Dolby Digital" or "DTS" depending on the source. One major problem: PowerDVD outputs NO sound whatsoever when I change the audio settings to "S/PDIF". If I set it to anything else (e.g. "2 Speaker", "6 speaker") I just get stereo sound. My suspition is a compatibility issue between PowerDVD and my X-Fi Sound Blaster drivers. Here's my system spec:

PC: Dell Vostro 200 Slim
OS: Vista Ultimate 32-bit SP1
Graphics: ASUS Radeon HD 3450 (Catalyst 8.2)
Audio: Sound Blaster X-Fi Xtreme Audio (latest drivers)
Display: Sony Bravia KDL-32D3000
Amp: Denon AVR-3802
PowerDVD Ultra: 7.3.3730.0
LG GGW-H20L Blu-Ray/HDDVD Combo Drive

I have disabled the onboard Relatek audio, and disabled the High-Def Audio on the graphics card.

I've done screengrabs of all relevant settings/info, they are here:

http://demon.xssl.net/~admin2/spdif/index.htm

I've e-mailed Cyberlink support but they are s-l-o-w, and not helpful. I want to play Blu-Ray and HD-DVD discs, so I really need PowerDVD to work. Any help is really appreciated.

I'm not all that good with Dolby features of the cards (as I haven't had much use for the capabilities, yet), but I'll still give it a shot:

I'm kinda getting the feeling it's either a driver issue, or a codec issue . . .

have you checked Cyberlink's site for any updates, and are you using a full retail version?

TBH, I'd start with first removing all FFDSHOW and 3rd party codecs (except for those that came with media player and PowerDVD), and installing only the AC3 codecs from http://ac3filter.net/

[btarunr]

One simple preliminary question: Where are you connecting the coaxial-SPDIF to? The connector on the motherboard?

[Russtavo]

have you checked Cyberlink's site for any updates, and are you using a full retail version?

TBH, I'd start with first removing all FFDSHOW and 3rd party codecs (except for those that came with media player and PowerDVD), and installing only the AC3 codecs from http://ac3filter.net/

Yes full retail version, latest build. Tried removing all codecs and just using AC3Filter. Problem is PowerDVD uses it's own codec reglardless (from what I can tell).

One simple preliminary question: Where are you connecting the coaxial-SPDIF to? The connector on the motherboard?

No, from my X-Fi Audio card to my amplifier. Onboard sound is disabled in the bios.

Heeeelp! :banghead:

[btarunr]

How are you taking the co-axial connection out? Digital IO module? External IO module? X-Fi Platinum drive?

2. In the Entertainment mode console, have you tried to set the Digital IO output sampling rate to 48 KHz from its default 96 KHz?

[Russtavo]

How are you taking the co-axial connection out? Digital IO module? External IO module? X-Fi Platinum drive?

Just a 75ohm Coax cable with a 3.5mm Mono Plug to Phono Socket Adaptor (http://www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?ModuleNo=34197&criteria=3.5mm%20gold%20phono&doy=22m2) on the Sound Card end, it plugs straight into the Digital Out port on the X-Fi card. I just want to reiterate - this works! PowerDVD is the problem, it just won't pass through SPDIF like all other apps, there must be a registry entry or something I can change?


2. In the Entertainment mode console, have you tried to set the Digital IO output sampling rate to 48 KHz from its default 96 KHz?

Yes I have it at 48 KHz.

[imperialreign]

Just a 75ohm Coax cable with a 3.5mm Mono Plug to Phono Socket Adaptor (http://www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?ModuleNo=34197&criteria=3.5mm%20gold%20phono&doy=22m2) on the Sound Card end, it plugs straight into the Digital Out port on the X-Fi card. I just want to reiterate - this works! PowerDVD is the problem, it just won't pass through SPDIF like all other apps, there must be a registry entry or something I can change?



Yes I have it at 48 KHz.


Alright, then - have you installed the ALchemy drivers (http://us.creative.com/support/downloads/download.asp?MainCategory=1&nRegionFK=&nCountryFK=&nLanguageFK=&sOSName=Windows+Vista+32-bit&region=1&Product_Name=Sound+Blaster+X-Fi+Xtreme+Audio&Product_ID=15855&modelnumber=&driverlang=1033&OS=26&drivertype=0&x=21&y=3) and OpenAL (http://developer.creative.com/articles/article.asp?cat=1&sbcat=31&top=38&aid=46)

From what all I've read of others having this issue with Vista (not just X-Fi owners, it seems), it's related to how the OS handles output, and because of how Media Player and MS apps are integrated with the OS, they're capable of playback, while 3rd party apps aren't.

I ran across a couple of pages that listed some registry fixes for these issues, but I'm having a hell of a time finding thos pages again. As soon as I run across them, I'll post the links for you to read and take a look at, too.

[btarunr]

You need a replacement AC3 CODEC/

http://www.free-codecs.com/download/K_Lite_Mega_Codec_Pack.htm

It comes with several AC3 multi-pass filters / CODECs

[Russtavo]

Imperialreign thank you so much for the suggestions, I installed Alchemy and OpenAL as you suggested, but no difference I'm afraid. I think your on the right track about 3rd party apps. Could you please PLEASE try and find those registry settings? It's my last hope before I have to buy a different sound card :cry:

btarunr, as far as I know (unless someone can correct me), PowerDVD only uses it's own CODECs when playing discs, and they can't be changed.

[btarunr]

I'm not sure what an OpenAL compatibility layer can do with erratic SPDIF pass. The X-Fi drivers come with the OpenAL ICD (installable client driver) and it isn't something you install on top of it. In case you have searched for, downloaded, and installed a generic OpenAL32.dll from Creative, I'm afraid it will be of an older, incompatible version and could affect performance with gaming. I don't link ALchemy to SPDIF's functionality.

For the sake of a test, you might want to try another application such as VLC, you can configure it.

[imperialreign]

I'm still diggin for those pages . . . problem being, there's so many "copy-cat" forums now that list the same message you started in this thread, and so many board-reader pages . . . plus, I can't remember the exact keywords I punched into google :ohwell:

but, from what all I've read across quite a few different pages concerning Vista and 3rd party apps like PowerDVD, it stems from how Vista is set up in registry to capture audio through it's own codecs. When a 3rd party app attempts to capture and process audio, it has to rely on it's own software as Vista blocks the apps ability to fully interact with the hardware, and you end up with a downsampled audio stream. It appears X-Fi owners, C-Media owners, and onboard audio users have all complained about the same exact or similar issues as you're describing with PowerDVD - they either have no s/pdif output at all, or only 2 channel stereo; but playback through WIN Media Center or Media Player works perfectly fine. So, even buying another soundcard probably won't resolve the issue - in the meantime, though, for shits and giggles, if you have s/pdif output from the motherboard, you could try attempting to see if your onboard chipset can actually playback multi-channel in PowerDVD (if you're Realtek chipset is capable of 5.1, etc). If you have the same exact problem, I'd think it's fair and safe to bet we're looking at a definite issue with the OS, and not with your hardware.

Also, try another application as btarunr suggested, also - it could perhaps be just an issue with one specific 3rd part application, too.

In the meantime, I'll keep looking . . .

[btarunr]

Makes me feel special that other forum sites are ripping our intellect. Goes on to make us the originals. :)

[imperialreign]

Makes me feel special that other forum sites are ripping our intellect. Goes on to make us the originals. :)

yeah, imitation is the most sincere form of flattery :laugh: - but it's a PITA when your trying to do some research, though :banghead:

[btarunr]

yeah, imitation is the most sincere form of flattery :laugh: - but it's a PITA when your trying to do some research, though :banghead:

I have a very numb 'back', tolerated so much pain already looking up whitepapers, talking to technical people, making people understand things in the simplest forms possible, writing pages of tech-blogs, drawing schematic diagrams,.....you can almost light a dynamite stick in my 'back', I wouldn't feel the pain :laugh:

:toast:

[Cold Storm]

Just to let you guys know. Random replaced the power capacitors on my card and the sound is out of this world. so much better then it was before. Can turn up to about half way on my speakers and they are just... Speech less... If needed I'll get some pictures for you guys on both the front panel mod and capacitor mod...

[btarunr]

I was planning on doing a cap-mod for a long time myself. Can't find replacements for the X-Fi Prelude, they already look/sound great but my Xtreme Gamer is the lab-mouse for now. Let's see a close-up of the capacitors, they're compatible for all SB X-Fi cards.

[Cold Storm]

all right, later on tonight I'll take some pictures for yeah. I had the cap put on the other side of the card because of the fact that the psu is at the bottom of the cosmos and I have every slot but one used right now. lol.

[imperialreign]

all right, later on tonight I'll take some pictures for yeah. I had the cap put on the other side of the card because of the fact that the psu is at the bottom of the cosmos and I have every slot but one used right now. lol.


This thread just broke 10,000 views!! w00t!! :rockout:

I've been conversing with trodas here and there, and he found that completely removing the audio filter caps, combined with replacing the OPAMPs yielded phenomenal results, as well as replacing the other caps as well.

Defi take some pics CS!


Imperialreign thank you so much for the suggestions, I installed Alchemy and OpenAL as you suggested, but no difference I'm afraid. I think your on the right track about 3rd party apps. Could you please PLEASE try and find those registry settings? It's my last hope before I have to buy a different sound card


Still looking . . . But, from what I understand and have dug up within the last couple of hours, though, it seems this decoder utility will allow you to change what Vista sees as the default decoder, by changing the same registry settings you'd have to change by hand: http://www.xpmediacentre.com.au/community/downloads.php?do=file&id=119, it may or may not work, but might be worth a shot, probably a lot easier than having to change settings by hand - I'm still looking for thos pages I ran across the other night . . . once I find them I'll post those links, too.


~~~


In between stuff the last day or two, I did up some EAX sigs, just for the heck of it. What do y'all think:

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/9318/thiefeaxjy0.jpg

http://img184.imageshack.us/img184/4037/doomeaxmh1.jpg

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/7906/sceaxeu2.jpg

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/7489/feareaxpn2.jpg

[Cold Storm]

Yeah, I'll take some pictures a little later. and I like the sigs..

[btarunr]

In between stuff the last day or two, I did up some EAX sigs, just for the heck of it. What do y'all think:


Brilliant :rockout:

I'm going to use the Doom 3 sig. :D How about something on CMSS-3D ?

[imperialreign]

Brilliant :rockout:

I'm going to use the Doom 3 sig. :D How about something on CMSS-3D ?

Thanks! Personally, I like the Thief one myself, but I'm biased that way (been a fan of the Thief series since 98 when The Dark Project was released) . . .

Ummm . . . CMSS-3D sig, sure - have anything specific in mind, a specific game or otherwise?

Same goes with the EAX sigs . . . if anyone can recommend any other game (that does support EAX), I'll whip up a sig for it.

I'm debating adding them to post#1.

[Russtavo]

For the sake of a test, you might want to try another application such as VLC, you can configure it.

Ok, here's an update: I installed the latest VLC player. Set to "Stereo" everything plays fine. If I set it to "A/52 over S/PDIF", the amp correctly detects DTS and Dolby Digital, but playback is extremely juddery (and I mean bad! Both picture and sound) :wtf:

I don't know how to solve this one :banghead:

[btarunr]

Ok, here's an update: I installed the latest VLC player. Set to "Stereo" everything plays fine. If I set it to "A/52 over S/PDIF", the amp correctly detects DTS and Dolby Digital, but playback is extremely juddery (and I mean bad! Both picture and sound) :wtf:

I don't know how to solve this one :banghead:

Set the output sample rate in the Creative Console to 96 KHz and try this again.

[imperialreign]

Set the output sample rate in the Creative Console to 96 KHz and try this again.

agreed.


and, if running a different 3rd party app actually works, then it's some issue with PowerDVD, IMO - now to just nail the jello to the wall . . .

[Russtavo]

Set the output sample rate in the Creative Console to 96 KHz and try this again.

Ok, tried this, I get the same horrendous stuttering. Played with every possible VLC setting (WaveOUT, etc.). No difference :twitch:

Not that I want to use VLC, it was just a test. Is there nothing out there apart from PowerDVD that I can use for Blu-Ray playback that supports ATI Hardware Acceleration? I'd still need to nail this audio problem though. Any more ideas? :confused:

[mab1376]

How do people feel about monster speaker cable? do you think it will make a difference once my card is hooked up via S/PDIF?

also its decided im upgrading to and X-fi Prelude.

[btarunr]

How do people feel about monster speaker cable? do you think it will make a difference once my card is hooked up via S/PDIF?

Not sure what you mean by that. If it means a low resistance copper coaxial cable then it still doesn't make a big difference if it's short distance since that's a digital interconnect. Aah, one way of looking at it would be that as it is, a coaxial cable adds to the latency over optical and that a low-res good quality co-ax cable would be a good connect between your card and the receiver. If you're hinting at the connection between the amplifier and the speaker, it solely depends on the speakers' parameters.

also its decided im upgrading to and X-fi Prelude.

Thattaboy! :toast: but don't expect a big change. There would be a change no doubt but not seriously much. I moved from a Xtreme Gamer to this card. The digital and front_panel audio output is pure gold, front channel is a screaming 5V.

[Russtavo]

Think I have a handle on the problem - Taken from Wikipedia:

Applications communicate with the audio driver through Sessions, and these Sessions are programmed through the Windows Audio Session API (WASAPI). In general, WASAPI operates in two modes. In exclusive mode (also called DMA mode), unmixed audio streams are rendered directly to the audio adapter and no other application's audio will play and signal processing has no effect. Exclusive mode is useful for applications that demand the least amount of intermediate processing of the audio data or those that want to output compressed audio data such as Dolby Digital, DTS or WMA Pro over S/PDIF. WASAPI exclusive mode is similar to kernel streaming in function, but no kernel mode programming is required.

It seems Media Player/Centre is using exclusive WASAPI, hence why it works great and third-party apps like PowerDVD aren't using it, thus my problem. Seems there is no solution :cry:

[mab1376]

Not sure what you mean by that. If it means a low resistance copper coaxial cable then it still doesn't make a big difference if it's short distance since that's a digital interconnect. Aah, one way of looking at it would be that as it is, a coaxial cable adds to the latency over optical and that a low-res good quality co-ax cable would be a good connect between your card and the receiver. If you're hinting at the connection between the amplifier and the speaker, it solely depends on the speakers' parameters.



Thattaboy! :toast: but don't expect a big change. There would be a change no doubt but not seriously much. I moved from a Xtreme Gamer to this card. The digital and front_panel audio output is pure gold, front channel is a screaming 5V.

actually i was planning on using optical, and using monster speaker cable from the sub woofer to to the speakers on my Z-5500's.

also how do you like the driver/software package for the prelude compared to the creative cards?

[btarunr]

also how do you like the driver/software package for the prelude compared to the creative cards?

Same drivers, just a couple of strings and graphics changed (where you had the creative logo, you have Auzen). No change. The latest driver allows DTS Interactive, etc. that's all.

[tigger]

I have QED silver anniversary speaker cable on my speakers and it DOES make a differance.Most people use bell wire(crappy thin wire) on their speakers,just no.

[btarunr]

I have QED silver anniversary speaker cable on my speakers and it DOES make a difference.Most people use bell wire(crappy thin wire) on their speakers,just no.

Co-axial SPDIF cable might not since it's just a path for digital transmission and signal-loss occurs only if the cable is too long (due to the resistance).

But you were right, and were hinting at the analogue cable that connects the amplifier to the speaker.

[Wile E]

I have QED silver anniversary speaker cable on my speakers and it DOES make a differance.Most people use bell wire(crappy thin wire) on their speakers,just no.

Yeah, but it doesn't have to be the overpriced Monter Cable stuff, or anything similar. Just buy standard 12ga speaker wire, and you'll never hear the difference between it and the premium stuff.

[imperialreign]

Yeah, but it doesn't have to be the overpriced Monter Cable stuff, or anything similar. Just buy standard 12ga speaker wire, and you'll never hear the difference between it and the premium stuff.

for the most part - but high end, sensitive speakers will pick up EMI through standard speaker wire. You'll never hear the faint static and clicking on low end components, though - unless you route your speaker wires near some powerful appliances.

I still tend to recommend shielded cable for most people - it's not much more expensive, really.


Think I have a handle on the problem - Taken from Wikipedia:

Applications communicate with the audio driver through Sessions, and these Sessions are programmed through the Windows Audio Session API (WASAPI). In general, WASAPI operates in two modes. In exclusive mode (also called DMA mode), unmixed audio streams are rendered directly to the audio adapter and no other application's audio will play and signal processing has no effect. Exclusive mode is useful for applications that demand the least amount of intermediate processing of the audio data or those that want to output compressed audio data such as Dolby Digital, DTS or WMA Pro over S/PDIF. WASAPI exclusive mode is similar to kernel streaming in function, but no kernel mode programming is required.

It seems Media Player/Centre is using exclusive WASAPI, hence why it works great and third-party apps like PowerDVD aren't using it, thus my problem. Seems there is no solution

The only thing you could keep hopeful about would be a driver update for PowerDVD that works around that issue - if indeed that's what the problem is. I had kinda gotten that feeling from what I've been able to research on the problem, hence why I recommended installing ALchemy and OpenAL - I wasn't sure how PowerDVD interacted with both Vista and the X-Fi hardware. Most people only report being able to use 2 channel stereo with PowerDVD . . .

As to the suttering . . . if you feel comofortable enough to go into your SYS BIOS . . . look for a setting entitled PCI Latency, and increase that one step. If it's currently set at 32, set it to 64 or 96. Giving the card a bit longer of a hold on the PCI BUS might resolve the suttering issue.

[Wile E]

for the most part - but high end, sensitive speakers will pick up EMI through standard speaker wire. You'll never hear the faint static and clicking on low end components, though - unless you route your speaker wires near some powerful appliances.

I still tend to recommend shielded cable for most people - it's not much more expensive, really.Most of the EMI that infiltrates the audio signal happens on the input side of things, not after the signal has already been amplified. More often than not, it's caused by ground feedback, although there are other sources to consider. Use shielded cable for all of your source connections, and you'll be fine. The only exceptions might be if, like you stated, you run your speaker wire past some heavy duty appliances that have nice, big electric motors, but in reality, you shouldn't be doing that anyway.

As an example, I have a pair of Polk Monitor 70s on my setup. I have them running thru an Onkyo DS696. I know it's not the highest end of setups, but it is very good. I used to have an EMI problem with my setup, once I switched to shielded source cables, the problem disappeared.

[imperialreign]

Most of the EMI that infiltrates the audio signal happens on the input side of things, not after the signal has already been amplified. More often than not, it's caused by ground feedback, although there are other sources to consider. Use shielded cable for all of your source connections, and you'll be fine. The only exceptions might be if, like you stated, you run your speaker wire past some heavy duty appliances that have nice, big electric motors, but in reality, you shouldn't be doing that anyway.

As an example, I have a pair of Polk Monitor 70s on my setup. I have them running thru an Onkyo DS696. I know it's not the highest end of setups, but it is very good. I used to have an EMI problem with my setup, once I switched to shielded source cables, the problem disappeared.

well, kinda what I meant - output coming from the card itself. Once the feed hits an amplifier, it's generally safe from there. Your average units nowadays that run from the rig to the amplifier/subwoofer enclosure tend to be alright from the sub to the speakers. Even still, most setups nowadays make use of shielded cables to begin with - especially the higher end units. The only time it would prob be more of a concern, is if your outputs run to a splitter of some sort - where an input is split between two or three different channels, and all you use is your standard speaker wire that plugs into both the unit and the speaker itself (as composed to speakers now where the input line is attached right out of the box).

Good example of types of stereo setups where EMI is really common is car stereos. I can't count the number of aftermarket setups I've heard where you can clearly hear audio interference from various vehicle components . . . even if everything has been properly grounded, too.

[syborfy]

Is there any way to hook up Front panel Audio to my X-fi Fatality Extreme gamer?
Are there any documentation on the pin outs?

Thank you

[imperialreign]

Is there any way to hook up Front panel Audio to my X-fi Fatality Extreme gamer?
Are there any documentation on the pin outs?

Thank you

Depends, which Xtreme Gamer card do you have?

If it's the standard Xtreme Gamer, the newer revisions have an Azalia connector on them, it will also work with AC97.

If you have an Xtreme Gamer Fatal1ty card: http://forums.techpowerup.com/showpost.php?p=651670&postcount=274

original instructions for making an adapter that will connect to the 10-pin connector: http://audigy2zshowto.blogspot.com/

a few reputable sites even sell those connectors already made for a small fee

[Electric]

12652

This might be useful!

[imperialreign]

12652

This might be useful!

I think that's the clearest image of a Creative proprietary connector I've ever seen! :toast:

For anyone that's wondering, the Audigy and X-Fi card's use the exact same connector and pinout, as that image demonstrates.

[Electric]

EDIT=Sorry... you wont see me in this forum again!

[imperialreign]

TBH, I really don't see the need for a link to the Sound Blaster timeline in this thread . . . seeing as how I'm attempting to cover only X-Fi models, and the fact that very few users actually make use of anything prior to the Live! models anymore.

TBH, I'm not sure what you're trying to get at, either. If it makes you feel any better, I've owned at least one card from every Sound Blaster incarnation over the years, minus anything from the Audigy lineup; so, that timeline is kinda pointless for me, as I've been there, done that . . .

[hat]

This needs to be stickied.
I want a sound card that can handle 128 voices. My Audigy II is a good card but it handles only 64. Will the Audigy 3 handle 128 voices? Will the Audigy 4? Or do I need an X-Fi card? If so, which one should I get? I've heard horror stories of X-Fi cards that are re-branded audigies or something and didn't handle X-Fi technology (worth a shit).

You wouldn't mind some free advertising would you? (I.E. me taking the sig pic, using it and also making the pic a link to this thread)

[btarunr]

This needs to be stickied.
I want a sound card that can handle 128 voices.

You're lucky. Newegg has a rebate for you, X-Fi Xtreme Gamer (CA20-K1 processor) that will effectively cost you $ 55.69 (shipping included, comes with a $30 MIR) clicky (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16829102006).

My Audigy II is a good card but it handles only 64. Will the Audigy 3 handle 128 voices?

No.
Will the Audigy 4? Or do I need an X-Fi card? If so, which one should I get? I've heard horror stories of X-Fi cards that are re-branded audigies or something and didn't handle X-Fi technology (worth a shit).

That's just the Xtreme Audio PCI. Stay away from this card. It's just a Audigy 4 SE + Crystalizer + CMSS 3D, etc. No gaming advantages.

You wouldn't mind some free advertising would you? (I.E. me taking the sig pic, using it and also making the pic a link to this thread)

Go ahead.

[hat]

I wasn't planning on OMG I WANT ONE NOW, I was gonna get one with my birthday money (plus a video card of course).

I see Audigy 4's going CHEAPO on Ebay. Do these handle 128 voices?

[hat]

I wasn't planning on OMG I WANT ONE NOW, I was gonna get one with my birthday money (plus a video card of course).

I see Audigy 4's going CHEAPO on Ebay. Do these handle 128 voices?

go ahead
what do you think of my... uhh... picture link thingy skillz?

[hat]

BTW found this error in Post #1:
"Sound Lbaster X-Fi Xtreme Audio PCI-Express"

[btarunr]

Do these handle 128 voices?

No, they don't have 128 hardware voices, it's exclusive to the CA20K1 processor X-Fi cards.

[imperialreign]

This needs to be stickied.
I want a sound card that can handle 128 voices. My Audigy II is a good card but it handles only 64. Will the Audigy 3 handle 128 voices? Will the Audigy 4? Or do I need an X-Fi card? If so, which one should I get? I've heard horror stories of X-Fi cards that are re-branded audigies or something and didn't handle X-Fi technology (worth a shit).

You wouldn't mind some free advertising would you? (I.E. me taking the sig pic, using it and also making the pic a link to this thread)

I agree with all of bta's recommendations.

As to the sig thing, not a problem! TBH, I don't think enough users here actually realize this thread exists, considering the number of x-fi related threads (and other sound related threads) that keep popping up in General Hardware - was a big reason why I recommended adding a "soundcard and audio" forum on the main page () (http://forums.techpowerup.com/showthread.php?t=52038); to get all those threads out of General Hardware. They pop up quite often, but are still buried by all the other threads, and I don't think people know how to use the search function (or are too lazy) . . . but I guess not enough 'important' people thought the new forum is worth the hassle . . . oh, well . . .

Anyhow, like bta said, the Audigy 4 doesn't support 128 hardware voices; it's still restrained to 64 voices like the rest of the Audigy lineup.

TBH, though, unless you're really strapped for cash, it's worth upgrading to an X-Fi. The Audigy 4 line is probably the best sounding Audigy series, but, the Au4s were released along side the early X-Fi cards in 2004/05, and really just add some new revisions and EAX capability over the Au2s (plus some other nominal additions). I don't think Creative plans on keeping up with official drivers for the Audigy's past this year, as they've neared the end of their support life.

[imperialreign]

caught wind of a new gaming headset that will be joining the market here soon:

http://www.ideazon.com/us/products/banshee.asp

not sure bout the speaker offerings of it, but spec wise looks like it could potentially compete with the Razer Barracuda - although, I think the Razer would still have the upper hand with the true 5.1 speaker capabilites of their headset.

although, the Banshee looks like it'll be priced in the $70-$100 range.

[btarunr]

Nice headset. Ideazon keyboards pwn. But no headsets/headphones for me until Aurvana :)

[imperialreign]

Nice headset. Ideazon keyboards pwn. But no headsets/headphones for me until Aurvana :)

I'm defi interested in the Ideazon, I have the MERC Stealth keyboard and it just kicks ass - worth the money, IMO; but, I'm liking the specs of their headset. Anyhow, you going after the Aurvana X-Fi?

[btarunr]

I'm defi interested in the Ideazon, I have the MERC Stealth keyboard and it just kicks ass - worth the money, IMO; but, I'm liking the specs of their headset. Anyhow, you going after the Aurvana X-Fi?

Yes, I'm after the Aurvana. It's selling for $249 in Singapore (home of Creative). Someone I know is going there this summer. I'll have them bring me one.

Hmm. They gave the product page (http://us.creative.com/products/product.asp?product=16975&campid=20445&WT.cg_n=Campaigns&WT.mc_id=8867) an edit.

[btarunr]

http://images.americas.creative.com/images/products/logo16975.png

Creative has rolled out a revised full range of Aurvana personal audio products, namely professional headphones, earphones. There's a broad range of applications and prices vary. The top of the line being Aurvana X-Fi.

The description extract from the website is as follows:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2343/2320060917_c01e6943ea_o.jpg

[Wile E]

Those in-ear phones look good on paper. Wonder how they sound in person.

[imperialreign]

Those in-ear phones look good on paper. Wonder how they sound in person.

from reviews I've read, they've been given rave reviews in the earbud market. I haven't had a chance to use them in person yet, though.


@btarunr - whenever you acquire you're Aurvana headset, defi try and write up a review of sorts or something - I'm truly curious how well they sound. Reviews that I've read so far have been very posititive, and most seem to respond they're as good or better than competing high-end headsets in that same price braket - but, I haven't really seen any reviews fro any audiophile sources, so I've taken them all with a grain of salt.

[Wile E]

from reviews I've read, they've been given rave reviews in the earbud market. I haven't had a chance to use them in person yet, though.


@btarunr - whenever you acquire you're Aurvana headset, defi try and write up a review of sorts or something - I'm truly curious how well they sound. Reviews that I've read so far have been very posititive, and most seem to respond they're as good or better than competing high-end headsets in that same price braket - but, I haven't really seen any reviews fro any audiophile sources, so I've taken them all with a grain of salt.

I only ask, cause my Shure E3C's just took the dump. I was listening to them, and they got caught on my gf's arm as she walked by. Ripped the cord right out of the right bud. :(

[imperialreign]

I only ask, cause my Shure E3C's just took the dump. I was listening to them, and they got caught on my gf's arm as she walked by. Ripped the cord right out of the right bud. :(

that sucks, man! they aren't cheap, either (I figure you spent over $100, right?). To the best of my knowledge, though, the Aurvana earbuds are more inline with the Shure E2Cs, but I might be wrong, though . . .

[Wile E]

that sucks, man! they aren't cheap, either (I figure you spent over $100, right?). To the best of my knowledge, though, the Aurvana earbuds are more inline with the Shure E2Cs, but I might be wrong, though . . .
Yeah, I paid $150 for them (MSRP $199 at the time). I don't think I can spend that much this time around tho. I miss them already. :cry:

[btarunr]

fwhenever you acquire you're Aurvana headset, defi try and write up a review of sorts or something.

Aye aye :cool:

[imperialreign]

New X-Fi drivers released - it appears that WIN XP SP2 Home and Professional x86 and x64, XP MCE 2004 and MCE 2005, Vista x86 and x64 have all been brought up to driver package 2.15.0006.

If anyone notices any degregaded performance or audio issues after installing the updated drivers, please inform me here so I can annotate post #1 accordingly - I'm really curious about the Media Center Edition drivers, as this is the first certified driver update for MCE.

[btarunr]

I was going to post that under news. Beat me to that :)

[imperialreign]

I was going to post that under news. Beat me to that :)

EastCoastHandle beat me to it - he posted it up in general hardware. I hadn't even realised the new drivers were released until that post . . . for some reason, I wasn't updated by Creative's RSS feeds . . . they musta been lazy today . . .

[department76]

thow me on the members list.

[imperialreign]

thow me on the members list.

will do, and welcome aboard! :toast:

[Dready]

Hello, i've got some questions concerning my xfi extreme audio notebook card. I've posted this on numerous forums but people seem to be clueless so i'm hoping this place might hold some answers. Here it goes :

Whenever i'm gaming while being on ventrilo and i alt-tab(windows key) back to deskptop my sound either gets screwed up for the people listening to me on vent(so my outbound) or all my own sound goes crazy. 90% of the times this happens and i'm not sure what to do about this as when it's just my outbound messing up it seems to get fixed by reconnecting to ventrilo but when all my own sound is screwed i sometimes have to reboot to get it working normally again. The best way i can describe what happens is that my sound get very metalic, sharp and distorted. Is this a known issue with vista and my sound card (xfi xtreme notebook audio)? My gf has the exact same laptop as me and she also has the same issue, she's had it alt tabbing out of her bookkeeping program back to desktop(this takes ventrilo out of the equation). And she has it also under the same circumstances as the ones i listed above.

Thnx for your time

*update* I managed to narrow the problem down to the xfi xtreme notebook audio card. When i switch to the onboard realtec i can't duplicate the issues. The problem is everything sounds so much better with the xfi card when it's working properly that i dread going back to the realtec full-time. Are there no other xfi notebook card owners out there that can tell me if they can alt-tab out of 3-D applications without messed up sound?


Hoping someone else has experienced similar issues so i can either put the issue to rest while i wait for new drivers or actually fix the problem.

[btarunr]

This case isn't isolated to the Xtreme Audio Notebook. In fact it's a known bug with all EAX 3.0+ cards be it notebook cards or PC expansion cards.

The explanation would be that: EAX 3.0+, unlike being a stream of audio data to be processed for reverb/echo effects (or other EAX effects), is transported in the form of blocks.

When an audio card has to playback simple wave output (as in music/videos, etc) there is no processing to be done and the audio data moves in the form of a stream from the system to the audio device. However during EAX processing, (that is upwards of EAX 2.0), the data moves in the forms of blocks, each block of data is perfectly synchronised to other outputs like the video (when gaming). When you task-switch, the video-output of the game is disturbed. The application skips several frames, the video and audio lose synchrony and as an aftereffect, the sound gets garbled. Garbeld as in: 1. There is a disturbance in the balance of stereo output. There is choppy output.

This affects audio input as well, input as in any analog/digital input because while an analog input (like say from a microphone) is perfectly a stream, the audio device cannot transport as stream and blocks simultaneously so block transfer takes place, unless the audio device's archtecture has seperate DAC and ADC. Most audio devices have combined DAC and ADC in a single chip, while the chip has seperate circuitry for DA conversions and AD conversions, the convertors share the same clock generator. In case of AC'97 codecs, the AC in the southbridge uses the SB's clock, could be similar with Intel Azalia HDA.

[imperialreign]

That might be a good part of it, as there are also a ton of issues with EAX and Vista from the start.

@ Dready; make sure you have the most recent OpenAL drivers (http://openal.org/downloads.html) installed, too. The OpenAL API + the EAX DSPs will give you the same playback as in XP.

I'm wondering, though, if the software he's using loads up access to a specific API within the OS kernel, and when you alt+tab out, Vista re-directs audio to a different API (i.e. WASAPI), resulting in a software conflict trying to access the hardware, and trying to alt+tab back into your application, the OS API either doesn't want to relenquish control and close down, or the application API was hung due to the conflict.

Certain early software applications in WIN XP had these types of issues a few years ago, and the only thing one could do was to avoid alt+tabbing, wait until a patch was released, or go about some registry hacks to keep the conflict from occuring.

[btarunr]

Vista only has one API, that's WASAPI. OpenAL comes with the audio drivers.

[imperialreign]

Vista only has one API, that's WASAPI. OpenAL comes with the audio drivers.

OpenAL comes with the X-Fi Vista drivers? I didn't realize Creative was that . . . Creative, lol!


Actually, though, Vista has 4 core API's:

Windows Audio Session API (http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ms679162(VS.85).aspx)
Windows Multimedia Device API (http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ms679147(VS.85).aspx)
DeviceTopology API (http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ms678713(VS.85).aspx)
EndpointVolume API (http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ms678715(VS.85).aspx)

the WASAPI is the beast of the bunch, though, and makes use of a few smaller API's to go about the legwork of audio sessions.

[v7100]

2.15.0006 seemed to updates the firmware.

This is the most stable version for 4GB with ASIO playable in both XP x64 and Vista 64-bit.

New X-Fi drivers released - it appears that WIN XP SP2 Home and Professional x86 and x64, XP MCE 2004 and MCE 2005, Vista x86 and x64 have all been brought up to driver package 2.15.0006.

If anyone notices any degregaded performance or audio issues after installing the updated drivers, please inform me here so I can annotate post #1 accordingly - I'm really curious about the Media Center Edition drivers, as this is the first certified driver update for MCE.

[btarunr]

I installed the new driver. In short: Thumbs up! That's Xtreme Gamer + Windows XP.

The driver actually improved the Crytalizer...or at least I noticed an improvement, higher Crystalizer settings don't cause the sound to crap out now as much as it did before. Another one is this:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2258/2339808999_9aabb7cc24_o.jpg

I couldn't manipulate the individual volumes or each analog output channel before. There's a sndvol32 extension that comes with this driver. I did a driver cleaning before installing this driver. In the process I lost the Creative Console launcher. Now I'm left with using the control panel. There's no update on the website, leaves me with only one option: use the CD. Would this cause a version conflict in any way?

[Dready]

Thnx for the replies guys, you guys seem to know your stuff! I guess we'll just have to wait for a new driver and hope that fixes it. :(

[imperialreign]

I installed the new driver. In short: Thumbs up! That's Xtreme Gamer + Windows XP.

The driver actually improved the Crytalizer...or at least I noticed an improvement, higher Crystalizer settings don't cause the sound to crap out now as much as it did before. Another one is this:

. . . .

I couldn't manipulate the individual volumes or each analog output channel before. There's a sndvol32 extension that comes with this driver. I did a driver cleaning before installing this driver. In the process I lost the Creative Console launcher. Now I'm left with using the control panel. There's no update on the website, leaves me with only one option: use the CD. Would this cause a version conflict in any way?

cool . . . I hadn't noticed that the new driver allowed for individual channel volume settings; that change applies to XP as well :rockout:

As to the Creative Audio Console, yeah, you'll have to install that from the CD - I've never seen Creative offer that seperately to download on their site.

Not sure if there'll be a conflict in Vista, but as for XP, the Audio Console still works flawlessly. If for some odd reason you need the installation package for the console and the mode switcher, PM me and I'll send it to ya.

[imperialreign]

actually . . . come to think of it - I might see if it'd be possible to host a couple of those installers and link them in post #1, like the Console Launcher, Mode Switcher and Volume Control Panel - simply because Creative doesn't offer those files for download with their driver packages . . . and should your installation CD ever become damaged, know what I mean?


. . . just not sure if there's any legal limitations to me doing so; maybe I'll send Creative an e-mail.

Thoughts, anyone?

[Cold Storm]

well, as you have done for me, the cd didn't work for me. You found the right version of the switch for me, and it works. Only problem is that if I click on it going through "All Programs" it gives me an error.. But I believe thats due to the fact its all ready on..
I think its a good idea, and you should contact Creative on it all

[Neziak]

I see that there is a solution for connecting an AC'97 front panel to an X-Fi with the '10 pins in a row' connector. But is there a way to connect an AC'97 FP with the "X-Fi XtremeGamer" which has a Intel HD connector?

[imperialreign]

I see that there is a solution for connecting an AC'97 front panel to an X-Fi with the '10 pins in a row' connector. But is there a way to connect an AC'97 FP with the "X-Fi XtremeGamer" which has a Intel HD connector?

To the best of my knowlege, an AC97 and an Azalia (Intel HD) connector are interchangeable, meaning that if your case has an AC97 connector, it will plug into an Azalia pinout without any problems.

[Neziak]

To the best of my knowlege, an AC97 and an Azalia (Intel HD) connector are interchangeable, meaning that if your case has an AC97 connector, it will plug into an Azalia pinout without any problems.

Is there anyone who can confirm this? Because I'm deciding whether to get the X-Fi XtremeGamer or the X-Fi XtremeGamer Fatal1ty. I would much rather get the XtremeGamer because of the price but if it doesn't work with my front panel and since it isn't possible to use the I/O drive kit with it I would consider the Fatal1ty version.

I tried to switch my motherboard front panel output from AC'97 to Intel HD. My front panel works with AC'97 but doesn't with Intel HD. In the Realtek control panel the outputs for the front panel are greyed as if there's nothing connected. So I'm really hoping that this is just the case for my motherboard and that my AC'97 front panel works with the X-Fi XtremeGamer.

[btarunr]

Read through this thread thoroughly, it has already been discussed.

[department76]

Is there anyone who can confirm this? Because I'm deciding whether to get the X-Fi XtremeGamer or the X-Fi XtremeGamer Fatal1ty. I would much rather get the XtremeGamer because of the price but if it doesn't work with my front panel and since it isn't possible to use the I/O drive kit with it I would consider the Fatal1ty version.

I tried to switch my motherboard front panel output from AC'97 to Intel HD. My front panel works with AC'97 but doesn't with Intel HD. In the Realtek control panel the outputs for the front panel are greyed as if there's nothing connected. So I'm really hoping that this is just the case for my motherboard and that my AC'97 front panel works with the X-Fi XtremeGamer.


my front panel has connectors for HD and AC97, i've tried both on my Preludes AC97 connector, headphones seem to work fine on both.

[Neziak]

Thanks for the reply. I did read the thread but in the Creative website it says that it does not work with AC'97 front panels and my front panel didn't work when I changed the front panel output of my motherboard to Intel HD so I just wanted to confirm if this means my front panel doesn't work with HDA at all or just with this motherboard.

[imperialreign]

Thanks for the reply. I did read the thread but in the Creative website it says that it does not work with AC'97 front panels and my front panel didn't work when I changed the front panel output of my motherboard to Intel HD so I just wanted to confirm if this means my front panel doesn't work with HDA at all or just with this motherboard.

According to Intel's site which describes the pinouts of both AC97 and Azalia, the two connectors are interchangeable as far as functionaility is concerned. What you won't have using an AC97 pluc on an Azalia connector, is the HD capabilities . . . meaning in short, the sound solution won't be able to 'detect' when you plugged in a jack or otherwise, and might not ever redirect audio to your front panel and mute the rear output. But, as far as left channel/right channel output is concerned, both AC97 and Azalia pinouts use the same pin number for these functions, which means that you should have playback through the jack.







Asides, everyone; I'm planning on doing quite a bit of an update to post #1 this weekend, addind some new issues I've come across - I'd also like to expand a bit on the descriptions of the X-Fi models, and also include the X-Mod, etc. And I've also decided to add a small section for related software and include some liks to a few applications (like Rightmark Audio Analyzer, Sonic Foundry Sound Forge (I believe now owned by SONY), and possible some Creative apps (If I obtain permission);

I've also decided to go ahead and include the Auzen Prelude into the list, as it stouts the basic X-Fi design inherent to Creative's lineup. @ btarunr: if you'd like to write a description of the Prelude and what it's advantages, etc are, I'd be glad to post it up - you know quite a bit more about the Prelude than I :p

So, if anyone want's to be included in the member list, has an issue to bring up, noticed anything they feel should be changed, updated, or clarified, any noticed mistakes, or has anything in general they would like to add that they feel would benefit the thread, post it up for consideration, I'll make sure to credit you if I add it to the main post!!!


I'd also like to give a sincere thanks to everyone who has contributed to this thread so far - I wasn't really sure how well it would go over, considering the other "Creative/X-Fi" threads that abound on the internet, and I'm glad to see it hasn't fallen into the depths of spam posts and Creative bashing like so many other threads have.

Thanks, y'all! :respect:

[btarunr]

Yup, Sunday I will PM you the description.

[imperialreign]

Yup, Sunday I will PM you the description.

thanks! I appreciate it :toast:

[Heichef]

Hi!
Could you please tell me at which master volume you do the RMAA test with your X-Fi cards? I have an Auzentech Prelude and even at 90% in master volume, RMAA reports that the distortion is too high, although the preset to RMAA in the audio console uses 98%. The RMAA guide to test the X-Fi advises to use 94% of volume. I have to use 86% in the master volume to make the test. I can actually hear the distortion in the sine wave when I use higher volumes, like 90%. My previous Audigy2ZS didn't have this issue. Is my Prelude faulty in any way?
Thanks in advance.

[btarunr]

Hi!
Could you please tell me at which master volume you do the RMAA test with your X-Fi cards? I have an Auzentech Prelude and even at 90% in master volume, RMAA reports that the distortion is too high, although the preset to RMAA in the audio console uses 98%. The RMAA guide to test the X-Fi advises to use 94% of volume. I have to use 86% in the master volume to make the test. I can actually hear the distortion in the sine wave when I use higher volumes, like 90%. My previous Audigy2ZS didn't have this issue. Is my Prelude faulty in any way?
Thanks in advance.

Use the Front-panel out headers, the headphone port of your system chassis and not front-out on the card. The front-channels are amplified to 5V which many reviewers found could distort.

[Heichef]

Thank you for the quick reply and the advice.
So...I presume it's normal then. At least I hope so...

[btarunr]

Thank you for the quick reply and the advice.
So...I presume it's normal then. At least I hope so...

Yes, the LM4562NA (amps the Front channels) provides an output of ~5V while the OPA2134 (that amp the other output channels including the FP_out) at ~2.2V

[Heichef]

Well, I tested the rear channels and they exhibit exactly the same kind of distortion on the same master volume levels. I used foobar2000 in Kernel Streaming mode with the plugin "Move stereo to rear channels". The Prelude's audio console was in Audio Creation Mode and Bit-Matched playback, matching the frequency of the sample wav file I used (which is a 1000hz sine wave). It appears that the problem isn't in the front channels opamp...

[btarunr]

When the soft-volume is '50%', the output is at its maximum volume, when it's > 50%, it's amplified.

[Heichef]

When the soft-volume is '50%', the output is at its maximum volume, when it's > 50%, it's amplified.

I see by your system specs that you also have the Prelude. Do you confirm my situation in the RMAA tests? Thank you for your help.

[btarunr]

I see by your system specs that you also have the Prelude. Do you confirm my situation in the RMAA tests? Thank you for your help.

You got it. I'll do it over the weekend. Meanwhile I have to mod an end-to-end 3.5mm jack cable. Since I'm testing the Linux drivers for the SB X-Fi (which seem to be specially programmed not to work), I have a SB Xtreme Gamer running in this machine now.

[imperialreign]

You got it. I'll do it over the weekend. Meanwhile I have to mod an end-to-end 3.5mm jack cable. Since I'm testing the Linux drivers for the SB X-Fi (which seem to be specially programmed not to work), I have a SB Xtreme Gamer running in this machine now.

I about lost some soda through my nose reading that . . . pretty funny :laugh:

The Linux X-Fi drivers are buggy, huh? Are they for all distros, or certain specific ones?

[btarunr]

I about lost some soda through my nose reading that . . . pretty funny :laugh:

The Linux X-Fi drivers are buggy, huh? Are they for all distros, or certain specific ones?

All that Creative says is it's a 'beta'...implies it won't support it and that it's Linux 64-bit. That's all, they just dumped the source files into a .tar.gz with close to no documentation. I'm having to go through countless Linux forums, spend hours chatting with those Linux nerds about crap like what is my kernel....most of the time it's about the Linux kernel, sometimes it deviates to apricot :shadedshu
(how gay)

I tried Ubuntu (Gutsy Gibbon), OpenSuSE 10.2, Fedora 7....all of the most popular distro's already fail. It's funny how Linux users (on an average) spend at least four hours to properly install a new device...automotive techies change a car's engine in that time while Windows users connect the device, insert the CD and five minutes later they're using it....and yet the Windows users complain of 'complicated' drivers.

[imperialreign]

I tried Ubuntu (Gutsy Gibbon), OpenSuSE 10.2, Fedora 7....all of the most popular distro's already fail. It's funny how Linux users (on an average) spend at least four hours to properly install a new device...automotive techies change a car's engine in that time while Windows users connect the device, insert the CD and five minutes later they're using it....and yet the Windows users complain of 'complicated' drivers.

or Linux users firmly stating that their OS is easier to use . . . sorry, I haven't been sold on it, yet - much like Vista. Hell, I'd prob rather install Vista than run Linux as of now. There's too many 1337 in the open source realm, IMO. It's a shame it has to be that way, too . . .


Wish I could be of help to ya with the Linux drivers - but I know absolutely nothing when it comes to Linux OS and driver installations/issues :ohwell:

[Neziak]

I just got my X-Fi XtremeGamer today and it thankfully it works with my cases AC97 front panel. :D I found it quite troublesome to keep opening the console to change modes at first but I found this program. X-Fi Mode Changer (http://www.freewebs.com/spectra9/xfmc.html)
It installs a tray icon where you can change modes easily. Sorry if this has been mentioned before.

[btarunr]

You can do that by right-clicking the Creative Console Launcher and selecting the mode you want from the menu. It has Application profiles, yay!

[tigger]

Just thought i'd say.i'm using my card with a co/ax digital out to my sony amp.sounds cracking and it works fine on 5.1.

[imperialreign]

I just got my X-Fi XtremeGamer today and it thankfully it works with my cases AC97 front panel. :D I found it quite troublesome to keep opening the console to change modes at first but I found this program. X-Fi Mode Changer (http://www.freewebs.com/spectra9/xfmc.html)
It installs a tray icon where you can change modes easily. Sorry if this has been mentioned before.

thanks for that link - I'll give it a shot, too . . . I might end up adding that link to post #1.

Just thought i'd say.i'm using my card with a co/ax digital out to my sony amp.sounds cracking and it works fine on 5.1.

first off . . . damn dude, where ya been around these parts?! Ain't seen you on TPU in quite some time!

Otherwise, did you mean to say you were having an issue with your sound? :confused:

[Wile E]

thanks for that link - I'll give it a shot, too . . . I might end up adding that link to post #1.



first off . . . damn dude, where ya been around these parts?! Ain't seen you on TPU in quite some time!

Otherwise, did you mean to say you were having an issue with your sound? :confused:
No, he was saying it sounds really good.

[omi5cron]

i need some simple advice, sorry if this is not the corrcet place to post this. i recently got a Fatal!ty X-Fi card and I/O drive component, but i need a replacement for the AD_EXT ribbon cable. should i just email Creative, as there is no sign of that cable anywhere on there, except as part of an I/O upgrade package. frankly, i REALLY want to get a rounded cable substitute. i know it needs to be 40 pin, and UN-blocked. i have been searching for an hour, and i must be using the wrong terms. any info or directions would be greatly appreciated. if this is incorrectly posted, please let me know. i don't wish to hijack a thread!! thanks again!

[Alex Clarke]

Thanks for the detailed information imperialreign.

I've been running my Sound Blaster X-Fi Fatal1ty for a few weeks now on Windows XP Professional x64 (after ditching Vista) and have only experienced problems after upgrading to the latest drivers.

After installing the latest drivers I became victim of the X-Fi crackling/popping issue. Even simple sounds, when played in Windows would stutter - making music and games unplayable!

The drivers I'm using are Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi series Driver 2.15.0006 (63.05 MB).

What's annoying is that everything was working fine before installing these latest drivers.

I've tried to uninstall the drivers and reinstall the old ones, but when doing so I get a BSOD. This occurs as the old drivers are being installed. I think it has something to do with the latest drivers updating my sound card's firmware. Whatever the cause of this problem, I cannot install the old drivers.

I did some troubleshooting and even reinstalled my OS, but the problem was still there.

In the end I turned the sound card's Hardware Acceleration down to Basic. This resolved the issue. However, now I can't benefit from the X-Fi's built in memory and any of the EAX features.

After all this I found your guide! :)

I've read the section regarding crackling/popping issues and tried the fixes, but been unsuccessful.

Do you know of a way to fix this or will I have to wait for Creative to release new drivers?

[btarunr]

Try Driver Cleaner. (http://www.drivercleaner.net/) You have to remove all traces of a newer driver from your system before you install an older one to avoid version-conflicts and related errors.

[imperialreign]

i need some simple advice, sorry if this is not the corrcet place to post this. i recently got a Fatal!ty X-Fi card and I/O drive component, but i need a replacement for the AD_EXT ribbon cable. should i just email Creative, as there is no sign of that cable anywhere on there, except as part of an I/O upgrade package. frankly, i REALLY want to get a rounded cable substitute. i know it needs to be 40 pin, and UN-blocked. i have been searching for an hour, and i must be using the wrong terms. any info or directions would be greatly appreciated. if this is incorrectly posted, please let me know. i don't wish to hijack a thread!! thanks again!

s'all good. You're talking about the 5.25" front panel drive, correct? If so, do you by chance have a pic of what the end of the cable looks like?

I'm pretty sure you can use a standard 40-pin IDE ribbon, like what you would use to hook up older HDD and CD-ROMs. Although, I can't say 100% for sure. If you might be able to provide a pic of the old one, that'd help.


@Alex Clarke - if btarunr's suuggestion of Driver Cleaner doesn't for some odd reason work (I can't imagine it wouldn't), you could give Creative's method a try as well.

right click on your Start button and select 'explore' Navigate to C:\Program Files\Creative\Sound Blaster X-Fi\Program and run the application entitled 'setup.exe'

when the Creative Driver Update Utility opens, click the box labeled "Overwrite existing shared Creative audio driver files," then select "Driver Uninstallation," and check the box labeled "Delete all shared Creative audio driver files." Finally, hit the 'OK' button. The utility will completely clear XP of all traces of Creative hardware and software.

next, install the driver from the update package first - and check your audio playback before you go adding software from the Installation CD.


Also, not really sure it will work in this case . . . but, do you have an option in BIOS to adjust your PCI latency? If so and you haven't tried it yet, raise it one notch. It may or may not make things better, and my gut feeling says it won't - but worth a shot, anyways.

If neither of these methods work, my best recommendation would be to stick with the drivers from the Installation CD, or whichever version worked for you last. Some versions of WIN XP don't seem to be compatible with newer X-Fi drivers (Windows XP Media Center, for example, the only driver version that is known to function properly is on the CD). If Creative releases any XP beta drivers, you can give those a shot, but they might not neccessarily fix the issue, either.

[4PLaY]

Hello XSS, I received an X-FI in a cardboardbox with 2 CDs one was a sampler and one I don't know what, How can I identify what type of XFI I have?

[btarunr]

Give us a pic if you can.

Visually inspect the card. There should be a model number (eg: SB073A, SBxxxx). What do you see?

[omi5cron]

i found a temporary fix for the broken I/O ribbon cable. what you see in the pic is an old ribbon cable from a very old PC. it has the 40 pin connector and none are blocked. i have used this successfully, but i really want a round cable. this is really ugly!! in fact, so was the original ribbon cable! any ideas on finding a round , compatible cable? i would mod this one, but it has the two connectors for slave/master drives, so no go. any help would be appreciated. oops, pic not loaded, i will try again later.

[Alex Clarke]

Try Driver Cleaner. (http://www.drivercleaner.net/) You have to remove all traces of a newer driver from your system before you install an older one to avoid version-conflicts and related errors.

I used the Creative application (found on my original X-Fi drivers CD) to remove all traces of the new drivers. This has been recommended by many others X-Fi users (so my Google search tells me).

I also manually checked for any files left behind before installing the old drivers.

At the moment, I still think this is a firmware issue and the old drivers will not install correctly with cards using the new firmware.

if btarunr's suuggestion of Driver Cleaner doesn't for some odd reason work (I can't imagine it wouldn't), you could give Creative's method a try as well.

right click on your Start button and select 'explore' Navigate to C:\Program Files\Creative\Sound Blaster X-Fi\Program and run the application entitled 'setup.exe'

when the Creative Driver Update Utility opens, click the box labeled "Overwrite existing shared Creative audio driver files," then select "Driver Uninstallation," and check the box labeled "Delete all shared Creative audio driver files." Finally, hit the 'OK' button. The utility will completely clear XP of all traces of Creative hardware and software.

next, install the driver from the update package first - and check your audio playback before you go adding software from the Installation CD.


Also, not really sure it will work in this case . . . but, do you have an option in BIOS to adjust your PCI latency? If so and you haven't tried it yet, raise it one notch. It may or may not make things better, and my gut feeling says it won't - but worth a shot, anyways.

If neither of these methods work, my best recommendation would be to stick with the drivers from the Installation CD, or whichever version worked for you last. Some versions of WIN XP don't seem to be compatible with newer X-Fi drivers (Windows XP Media Center, for example, the only driver version that is known to function properly is on the CD). If Creative releases any XP beta drivers, you can give those a shot, but they might not neccessarily fix the issue, either.

The 'setup.exe' file you mentioned does not exist on my system. I simply downloaded and installed the new Creative drivers and have not (and will not) install anything from the CD.

As mentioned above, I'm pretty sure the reason I can't install the old drivers is due to the firmware update applied by the new drivers. The reason I think this is because I couldn't install the old driver even after a complete format!

I also doubt that the drivers on the CD will work (again due to the new firmware), but have not tested this.

I've just changed my PCI Latency (for all devices it looks like) in the BIOS. It was set to 8 (out of 31). So, I set it to 31... and my X-Fi now works with the new drivers and hardware acceleration set to max! :)

My motherboard (LANPARTY UT RDX-200) manual states:

PCI Latency Timer (CLK)
This feature is used to select the length of time each PCI device will control the bus before another takes over. The larger the value, the
longer the PCI device can retain control of the bus. Since each access to the bus comes with an initial delay before any transaction
can be made, low values for the PCI Latency Timer will reduce the effectiveness of the PCI bandwidth while higher values will improve it.

By default the value is set to 8 and the max (as mentioned above) is 31.

Do you know why this default value of 8 is used? Also, will setting this value to max (or much higher than 8) have any adverse affect on my system performance?

Thanks for the help so far and, fingers crossed, everything will keep on running fine!=. :)

[Alex Clarke]

Ok, here's another update.

After reading up on PCI Latency (just a Google search) I found that it is best not to set the value too high in the BIOS.

So, I changed the value from 31 (max) to 9 (1 above default, which was causing me issues) and my X-Fi still worked!

I wanted to confirm that it was this PCI Latency setting that had been conflicting somehow with my X-Fi, so I changed it back to the default setting of 8.

Windows loaded fine and I was able to play some music and a little Battlefield 2 (sound on max settings) without any issues.

What does this tell us? I don't really know!

Changing the PCI Latency value has obviously fixed the problem (hopefully for good), but the problem doesn't return if I undo this change.

Hopefully this information will help someone else out.

[imperialreign]

@Alex - the setup file I mentioned is the same exact application as the driver utility on the X-Fi installation CD. Typically, when doing an install of the drivers, etc, from the CD, it should be copied also to the HDD. No worries, though.

As to PCI latency, it's a measurement of how long of a time a device is allowed to have access to the systems PCI BUS. The BIOS will specify a default setting that WIN interpets when managing device intertupt requests. Not all BIOSes have an option to change this setting, though. By increasing the latency, you're providing more clock cycles for a device to have access to the BUS. With short latency times, it becomes harder for the sound card to transfer files from SYS MEM to the card and back, and can typically lead to audio clipping or partially processed playback.

Typically, setting a high setting shouldn't damage your system, it would just lead to a somewhat instable state, and very long wait times for components, which would slow the system down overall. I wouldn't have recommended putting the latency setting to max, nor would I have recommended leaving it there, either. But, there should be no harm done to your system.

Glad to hear it's running fine now, though! :toast:

[Alex Clarke]

Well... I did set the PCI Latency back to default (as mentioned above) and my X-Fi worked fine.

However, after playing a few songs (using Windows Media Player 11) I noticed some crackling and popping (nothing as bad as before).

So, I moved my PCI Latency up by 1 (again) to 9.

All seems to be fine now.

Thanks again for all your help. :)

[Russtavo]

Think I have a handle on the problem - Taken from Wikipedia:

Applications communicate with the audio driver through Sessions, and these Sessions are programmed through the Windows Audio Session API (WASAPI). In general, WASAPI operates in two modes. In exclusive mode (also called DMA mode), unmixed audio streams are rendered directly to the audio adapter and no other application's audio will play and signal processing has no effect. Exclusive mode is useful for applications that demand the least amount of intermediate processing of the audio data or those that want to output compressed audio data such as Dolby Digital, DTS or WMA Pro over S/PDIF. WASAPI exclusive mode is similar to kernel streaming in function, but no kernel mode programming is required.

It seems Media Player/Centre is using exclusive WASAPI, hence why it works great and third-party apps like PowerDVD aren't using it, thus my problem. Seems there is no solution :cry:

Ok for those that remember my posts and who helped me, I have solved my problems by ripping out the X-Fi card and putting in a Sweex C-Media based card, and used the Open Source drivers (http://code.google.com/p/cmediadrivers/). Everything now works as expected in all apps! :nutkick:

[Heichef]

You got it. I'll do it over the weekend. Meanwhile I have to mod an end-to-end 3.5mm jack cable. Since I'm testing the Linux drivers for the SB X-Fi (which seem to be specially programmed not to work), I have a SB Xtreme Gamer running in this machine now.

Hi!
Hope you had success with those problematic Linux drivers.
Do you have any news on the Prelude's high volume distortion in RMAA tests?

Thank you in advance.

[Mistral]

Hello,

I've had a "Sound Blaster X-Fi Platinum Fat Champion" for quite a few months now, without any problems if I dare add.

Thing is, I now have 4x1GB RAM and cracking galore in ViSHTA64 if I turn on the thing (sorry, can't remember the exact name) that lets you use all 4GB.

Anyhow, my question is as follows: are there any fixes for that? :roll:

[imperialreign]

Hello,

I've had a "Sound Blaster X-Fi Platinum Fat Champion" for quite a few months now, without any problems if I dare add.

Thing is, I now have 4x1GB RAM and cracking galore in ViSHTA64 if I turn on the thing (sorry, can't remember the exact name) that lets you use all 4GB.

Anyhow, my question is as follows: are there any fixes for that? :roll:


TBH . . . not that I am aware of :wtf:

Did you upgrade to the new driver version that was released last week?


<edit>

in the meantime, I'll research it some . . .

[Mistral]

The 06 from march 14? I did. IIRC, even in 04 there was something about them having fixed the 4GB problem, but as lots of users can attest to, that clearly isn't the case.

[imperialreign]

The 06 from march 14? I did. IIRC, even in 04 there was something about them having fixed the 4GB problem, but as lots of users can attest to, that clearly isn't the case.


Yeah, the driver details mention something about fixing an issue with 4GB of RAM, but it doesn't offer much further info.

TBH, I hadn't even known there was an issue with 4GB systems . . . I'm still digging for further information on it; perhaps I can turn up some kind of info of value - if I can at least get a better idea about what the specific issue is and what is cause/affected by it . . .

[Alex Clarke]

Just a quick update, my problem as reported in earlier posts (crackling/popping issues) here is back! :(

I too am running a system with 4GB of memory (and memory hole enabled in the BIOS).

Unlike Mistral, however I'm using Windows XP Pro x64 as my OS.

I might actually contact Creative about this issue as the old drivers ran fine!

[Myssi]

Not sure if this has been already answered here somewhere, search funtion didn't bring out any usefull results and I got bored going through these posts somewhere around page 20.

But anyways, having odd issue with the mode changing software, it seems to be stuck on Game mode for good, when I try to switch into Entertaiment or Audio creation mode I get the following Audio Console error message.

'This operation cannot be carried out. This may be because the audio device is in use. Please quit all audio applications and games, and try again.'

The funky thing is that I'm not running any audio programs, even shut down IRC-client and Messenger.
It slapped the game mode on by itself and now it refuses to let it go. I've had the card for about 5 days now.

I've re-installed all the software and changed the card into different PCI slot, with and without the frontpanel and still nothing.
Drivers are newest ones I could find on Creatives website ofcourse, everything else works just perfectly, all the CMSS thingies go on and off like they should, it detects when I plug my headphones in and so on.

System specs go something in the lines of
Asus P5B-deluxe, onboard sound turned off.
Intel C2D E6600 @3.37Ghz
2Gigs of DDR2 800Mhz
Vista home premium 32bit
Club3d 8800GTS320
And ofcourse X-Fi Fatal1ty pr0 XtremeGamer with that frontpanel thingie.

Ventilation should be ok, Antec P182 with one 120mm fan blowing air to the case infront, 2 at the rear taking it out.
All drivers and BIOS are up to date as far as I know.

Edit. It worked Ok for a while and then it jammed itself into the game mode.

[imperialreign]

Just a quick update, my problem as reported in earlier posts (crackling/popping issues) here is back! :(

I too am running a system with 4GB of memory (and memory hole enabled in the BIOS).

Unlike Mistral, however I'm using Windows XP Pro x64 as my OS.

I might actually contact Creative about this issue as the old drivers ran fine!

Sorry to hear the issue has cropped back up again :ohwell:

couple of other thoughts . . . do you have the Mar08 DirectX (http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?familyid=2da43d38-db71-4c1b-bc6a-9b6652cd92a3&displaylang=en) update installed?

I seriously doubt it has anything to do with it, though. Also, have you made sure hardware acceleration is fully on?





Not sure if this has been already answered here somewhere, search funtion didn't bring out any usefull results and I got bored going through these posts somewhere around page 20.

But anyways, having odd issue with the mode changing software, it seems to be stuck on Game mode for good, when I try to switch into Entertaiment or Audio creation mode I get the following Audio Console error message.

'This operation cannot be carried out. This may be because the audio device is in use. Please quit all audio applications and games, and try again.'

The funky thing is that I'm not running any audio programs, even shut down IRC-client and Messenger.
It slapped the game mode on by itself and now it refuses to let it go. I've had the card for about 5 days now.

I've re-installed all the software and changed the card into different PCI slot, with and without the frontpanel and still nothing.
Drivers are newest ones I could find on Creatives website ofcourse, everything else works just perfectly, all the CMSS thingies go on and off like they should, it detects when I plug my headphones in and so on.

System specs go something in the lines of
Asus P5B-deluxe, onboard sound turned off.
Intel C2D E6600 @3.37Ghz
2Gigs of DDR2 800Mhz
Vista home premium 32bit
Club3d 8800GTS320
And ofcourse X-Fi Fatal1ty pr0 XtremeGamer with that frontpanel thingie.

Ventilation should be ok, Antec P182 with one 120mm fan blowing air to the case infront, 2 at the rear taking it out.
All drivers and BIOS are up to date as far as I know.

Edit. It worked Ok for a while and then it jammed itself into the game mode.

Can you change the mode from within the Creative Audio Console (as compared to using the mode switcher/console launcher)? Go to Start>Programs>Creative> and open the Creative Audio Console, and try it from there.

If it still won't change, would you mind posting a screenshot of thr running processes in Task Manager? Hit ctl+alt+dlt, select the processes tab, and hit alt+print screen; then go into Paint, hit paste, save it and post it if you don't mind.







Asides - @ btarunr, have you had any issues with your XG after the firmware update? I've noticed playback in games seems to be extremelly sharp now - like a slight snap at the beginning of a playback; and seems to do it no matter what the sample rate is, or having the Crystallizer on/off.

I'm getting the feeling the firmware update is what is causing all these new issues that seem to be cropping up recently.

[Alex Clarke]

Sorry to hear the issue has cropped back up again :ohwell:

couple of other thoughts . . . do you have the Mar08 DirectX (http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?familyid=2da43d38-db71-4c1b-bc6a-9b6652cd92a3&displaylang=en) update installed?

I seriously doubt it has anything to do with it, though. Also, have you made sure hardware acceleration is fully on?

I've got the latest DirectX release (even reinstalled it a couple fo times to ensure everything is up to date).

My hardware acceleration is currently set to basic. Anything above that causes me issues (crackling/popping). Obviously basic acceleration does not allow me to benefit from EAX and the onboard memory of my X-Fi. :(

As I've said before (and you mentioned in your last post) this is probably a firmware issue. I just hope Creative sort this out... quickly!

[imperialreign]

I'm not 100% defi that it is an issue with the updated firmware, but it does seem a bit unusual. I've even had a few minor issues that I've been trying to work out that only cropped up after the updates - they're small enough issues that most people probably wouldn't notice, though.

I'm still looking into a couple of these "newer" issues, if I find something concrete I'll post them up.

[Alex Clarke]

I'm not 100% defi that it is an issue with the updated firmware, but it does seem a bit unusual. I've even had a few minor issues that I've been trying to work out that only cropped up after the updates - they're small enough issues that most people probably wouldn't notice, though.

I'm still looking into a couple of these "newer" issues, if I find something concrete I'll post them up.

Would one of these issues be the lack of DVD audio?

I had DVD audio with the old drivers and firmware, but now it's gone! :(

What's really annoying is that I can't install the old drivers with this new firmware... and I can't flash my card to the old firmware (well... I don't think it's possible) either.

[imperialreign]

Yeah, I don't know how to back date the firmware version on these cards . . .

but, I haven't had any issues with DVDs yet, perhaps I'll give a couple a try and see how that goes.
But, aside from the slight snap I mentioned earlier, I've also lost volume adjustment control within games. I have to alt+tab out of a game to adjust volume level now.
Audio positioning sounds different as well in-game, somethings sound way too far away or too near.

[Alex Clarke]

I'm using these headphones (http://www.razerzone.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2_16&products_id=38) with my X-Fi and have noticed that the sound appears to be louder in the right speakers/headphone.

This makes things sound strange... especailly games.

I've used these headphones with the new drivers and firmware only, so cannot comment on what the sound positioning was like before.

Anyway... I'll be contacting Creative about my 2 issues and see what they say.

When I get a reply I'll post it here.

[btarunr]

I'm using these headphones (http://www.razerzone.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2_16&products_id=38) with my X-Fi and have noticed that the sound appears to be louder in the right speakers/headphone.

This makes things sound strange... especailly games.

I've used these headphones with the new drivers and firmware only, so cannot comment on what the sound positioning was like before.

Anyway... I'll be contacting Creative about my 2 issues and see what they say.

When I get a reply I'll post it here.


You are mistaken. These headphones do not in any way connect to your X-Fi. They come with either HD-DAI / USB interface and have their own audio chipset. Just that their volume is routed to sndvol32 common and when you use your X-Fi volume control, you can adjust volume for this. If you're using the analog inputs instead of USB, set the volumes of each individual channels to 50% for the X-Fi.

[Alex Clarke]

They have their own 'pre-amp' (which takes power from the USB port), not their own chipset.

Are we talking about the same headphones? :wtf:

[Myssi]

Can you change the mode from within the Creative Audio Console (as compared to using the mode switcher/console launcher)? Go to Start>Programs>Creative> and open the Creative Audio Console, and try it from there.

If it still won't change, would you mind posting a screenshot of thr running processes in Task Manager? Hit ctl+alt+dlt, select the processes tab, and hit alt+print screen; then go into Paint, hit paste, save it and post it if you don't mind.


The problem seems to have fixed itself for some reason.
I'm just guessing wildy here, but me thinks that it had something to do with the way Vista handles audio.
Some of those funky new modules that process all sound refused to kindly go away when not needed anymore and keeping sound card in Game mode.

Tried to boost my brain into remembering things and I think the problem manifested only after when played some X-Fi game, BF2142 \ BF2 in this case.
After a bootup it allowed me to change modes, even when VLC or WinAmp was running.

Edit: No, it didn't allow me to change the mode even from audio console.

[imperialreign]

The problem seems to have fixed itself for some reason.
I'm just guessing wildy here, but me thinks that it had something to do with the way Vista handles audio.
Some of those funky new modules that process all sound refused to kindly go away when not needed anymore and keeping sound card in Game mode.

Tried to boost my brain into remembering things and I think the problem manifested only after when played some X-Fi game, BF2142 \ BF2 in this case.
After a bootup it allowed me to change modes, even when VLC or WinAmp was running.

Edit: No, it didn't allow me to change the mode even from audio console.

Odd, but I find this: "Some of those funky new modules that process all sound refused to kindly go away when not needed anymore and keeping sound card in Game mode." pluasible. Vista's audio is a little dodgy, and that's not the first time I've heard complaints like that.

[EastCoasthandle]

I find some headphones from Sennheiser (http://www.sennheiserusa.com/newsite/category.asp?transid=cat0) the best when paired with your X-Fi. I am sure there is one other brand that is arguably better but I forget the name.

[btarunr]

Yup, my brother has a pair from the DJ series, I'll give them a try soon.

[Mistral]

Well, I've more or less given up on searching and trying to solve my X-Fi/4GB/NF4/ViSHTA64 problem. I've settled for turning off memory remapping in the bios and running with 3GB usable and normal sound.

I have another question though, about the power connector on the card. I looked through the thread and there was some word on it, but nothing conclusive (at least as far as I could see). I have a power connector in on the front bay, need/should I also plug one on the sound card itself? Kind of sounds ridiculous...

[imperialreign]

Well, I've more or less given up on searching and trying to solve my X-Fi/4GB/NF4/ViSHTA64 problem. I've settled for turning off memory remapping in the bios and running with 3GB usable and normal sound.

I have another question though, about the power connector on the card. I looked through the thread and there was some word on it, but nothing conclusive (at least as far as I could see). I have a power connector in on the front bay, need/should I also plug one on the sound card itself? Kind of sounds ridiculous...

no, you don't need to. The 4-pin power connector on the card is for if you have the external I/O console, so that it can be powered through the attachment cable. Otherwise, it has no other useful function, to the best of my knowledge.

Sorry to hear you couldn't get the 4GB + Vista issue solved. There have been some dodgy issues with the vista drivers, and haven't been able to turn up anything truly conclusive on your issue. Other seem to have been able to fix the problem by changing drivers, but a lot of those complaints were from before the most recent driver release. Asides, though, I'll keep my eye out, and if I happen across any information that would prove useful, I'll either post it or PM it to you.

[btarunr]

Well, I've more or less given up on searching and trying to solve my X-Fi/4GB/NF4/ViSHTA64 problem. I've settled for turning off memory remapping in the bios and running with 3GB usable and normal sound.

I have another question though, about the power connector on the card. I looked through the thread and there was some word on it, but nothing conclusive (at least as far as I could see). I have a power connector in on the front bay, need/should I also plug one on the sound card itself? Kind of sounds ridiculous...

The power connector of the card comes useful when you connect an external IO module (that which comes with the Elite Pro). Since the external module doesn't come with a DC input, it draws power from the system. There are rumors doing rounds that a power input to the card fixes pops and scratches when in Game mode but that's BS, with no explanation. But for sure, the CA20K1 is power hungry at 13 W (Game mode) and ~4W (Entertainment/Audio Creation). There's a long explanation for that.

[mab1376]

all i get is hissing through my center channel, i was plugging my stuff back in after i unhooked everything to install some new ram while the system was on. now it only works in 2 channel mode...

have a x-fi xtreme music..

[Wile E]

Install the Daniel_K drivers, I say. Have them running on my machine, and everything is better.

[mab1376]

where can i get them?
(pm me)

-edit-

im using xp....

[imperialreign]

all i get is hissing through my center channel, i was plugging my stuff back in after i unhooked everything to install some new ram while the system was on. now it only works in 2 channel mode...

have a x-fi xtreme music..

odd . . . I thought this kind of issue was limited mostly to Vista :confused:

curious - you said you had the system on? Have you rebooted since the issue started occuring?

[btarunr]

Try 'Bumbchucking' : Switch modes from Ent to Game during output, the other way round isn't possible, reset the values in the THX console to defaults, set the soft volume to 50% in Volume Control (sndvol32) and tune the center channel volume:

http://img.techpowerup.org/080408/btarun.jpg

[mab1376]

that doesn't fix it i think it might be a hardware issue... :wtf:

scratch that... I'm retarded i had the center/sub channel plugged into the microphone port...

[imperialreign]

that doesn't fix it i think it might be a hardware issue... :wtf:

scratch that... I'm retarded i had the center/sub channel plugged into the microphone port...

It dawned on me last night that I should prob ask you if you'd double checked your connections, but wasn't thinking.

S'all good :toast:

[btarunr]

scratch that... I'm retarded i had the center/sub channel plugged into the microphone port...

http://misers.org/pictures/SomethingAwful/20050920-lol/lolcano.gif

[Ninkobwi]

sign me up :) splurged a bit, got the Prelude. I think im in love

[btarunr]

You're in. I've got a Prelude too, it's with my brother for this week.

[imperialreign]

sign me up :) splurged a bit, got the Prelude. I think im in love

sure thing; and congrats on such a sweet-ass card :toast:

[mab1376]

http://forums.techpowerup.com/showthread.php?t=57457

everyone who runs linux and own an x-fi card look here!

[btarunr]

http://img.techpowerup.org/080410/bta1.png

So, X-Fi + Linux finally possible!

[imperialreign]

hey, if it seems to work without any major hiccups - I'll link that in post #1.

[btarunr]

No hiccups at all. It works just fine despite being a beta. This driver module is not coded by Creative, what bigger assurance do you need?

[imperialreign]

No hiccups at all. It works just fine despite being a beta. This driver module is not coded by Creative, what bigger assurance do you need?

:roll:


I can't give you any flak on that statment after what came to light from Creative's camp a couple of weeks ago. :p

[mab1376]

yeah definitely a very big leap forward!! :toast:

[Wile E]

I may actually be in the market for a X-Fi now. Good find mab.

[imperialreign]

I may actually be in the market for a X-Fi now. Good find mab.

if you've got any questions about the models and differences between them, we're more than willing to help :toast:

[Wile E]

if you've got any questions about the models and differences between them, we're more than willing to help :toast:

Thanks imperial. I'm pretty much squared away with what I want tho. My eyes are on the Auzen. :D

[btarunr]

Thanks imperial. I'm pretty much squared away with what I want tho. My eyes are on the Auzen. :D

Perhaps? (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16829102018)

[Wile E]

Nah, don't like the phones. I just can't keep my eyes off of the Prelude either. lol.

[btarunr]

HS900 is an excellent pair, the same that's rebadged now with Fatal1ty branding and sold for ~ $125. Besides you're getting this along with Elite Pro. Daniel K's drivers don't cover X-Fi Prelude.......yet. A serious lot of ASIO features of the Elite Pro can be unlocked by Dan's drivers that aren't available on Xtreme Gamer Fatal1ty Pro / Platinum Fatal1ty Champion.

[Cold Storm]

All right guys. RM redid the sodering on the X-fi Music card. So I took pictures before putting it in.
The Top of the card: Power cap mod, opamp mod, and a something else... I'm bad with names! Really bad...
http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb119/Coldstorm84/100_0181.jpg


The back of the card with the front panel mod
http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb119/Coldstorm84/100_0182.jpg

sorry for the big pictures... the TPU free image isn't working for me...

[btarunr]

Kinda blurry. How about turning off the auto-focus on the camera and manually doing it? I see you've replaced the phase I capacitor (that big blue one), some details on that please.

[Cold Storm]

yeah, they are blurry. I changed it to where it captures pictures at 70cm... I still can't use the capturing part with TPU so I'll just link you to my photobucket (http://s205.photobucket.com/albums/bb119/Coldstorm84/).. I really don't mind people looking at things I like.

As for the phase capacitor, I heard that after a while the stock cap can corrode and leak over the sound card. So, I had rm do the mod. I don't do a lot of modding myself with a sodering iron because of the fact that RM has more practice at it, and just gets a high doing that sort of thing. I'm learning, just don't want to f up the card...
I did every single mod but the padding to this card. I haven't yet found a place to buy it at a good price.

[imperialreign]

yeah, they are blurry. I changed it to where it captures pictures at 70cm... I still can't use the capturing part with TPU so I'll just link you to my photobucket (http://s205.photobucket.com/albums/bb119/Coldstorm84/).. I really don't mind people looking at things I like.

As for the phase capacitor, I heard that after a while the stock cap can corrode and leak over the sound card. So, I had rm do the mod. I don't do a lot of modding myself with a sodering iron because of the fact that RM has more practice at it, and just gets a high doing that sort of thing. I'm learning, just don't want to f up the card...
I did every single mod but the padding to this card. I haven't yet found a place to buy it at a good price.

yeah, the big power filter capacitor right next to the APU is the single most notorious leaker on the X-Fis.

If you're looking for recommendations, PM trodas on it - he's done a lot of work with the Fatal1ty card so far, and can offer some excellent recommendations as to what to replace with what. I believe, IIRC, on his card, he's even completely removed the audio filter capcatitors for the output channels as well - the ones prior to the OPAMPs. He's suggested that with the OPAMP replacement, sound is much better and clearer as well.

By the way - a really good idea would be to pick up some of those small RAM-sinks (similar to these: http://www.frozencpu.com/products/7191/vid-106/Enzotech_BCC9_Memory_Ramsinks_-_8_Pack_BMR-C1L.html?tl=g40c18s236), and place one on the DAC and one on each OPAMP, mosfet, <one of the other chips on the lower right side of the card, don't remember what it is off the top of my head> - also, if you have a larger, rectangluar RAMsink, slap one on that piece of DRAM. Copper preferablly - the copper will act as a small EMI sheild for the chip, and will help remove some heat from the component, especially if you do a lot of intense gaming. The cooler the components run, the better and clearer the sound will be. Aluminum HSes will work as well, but don't provide the same level of EMI benefit that the copper will.

Asides, looks good so far CS! :toast:


HS900 is an excellent pair, the same that's rebadged now with Fatal1ty branding and sold for ~ $125. Besides you're getting this along with Elite Pro. Daniel K's drivers don't cover X-Fi Prelude.......yet. A serious lot of ASIO features of the Elite Pro can be unlocked by Dan's drivers that aren't available on Xtreme Gamer Fatal1ty Pro / Platinum Fatal1ty Champion.

very true! @ Wile, if you're in the market for the best sounding audio card, and money isn't a big problem - keep your eye on either the Auzentech X-Fi Prelude, or the Creative X-Fi Elite Pro. Auzen's is still reigning supreme, but 3rd party drivers are opening up the versatility o the Elite Pro a lot. Asides, as far as Creative's X-Fi cards are concerned - the Elite Pro is a beast all to it's own.

[Cold Storm]

I've done every mod to this card that there is. Random Murderer found the mod's and is apart of hifi, so he and tordas have talked a few times about the card. I'm happy with the card.. just not vista.. lol

[imperialreign]

I've done every mod to this card that there is. Random Murderer found the mod's and is apart of hifi, so he and tordas have talked a few times about the card. I'm happy with the card.. just not vista.. lol

big reason why I haven't upgraded to Vista yet is it's audio architecture. BTW, double check that previous post of mine, I added to it while you were posting :o

[Cold Storm]

big reason why I haven't upgraded to Vista yet is it's audio architecture. BTW, double check that previous post of mine, I added to it while you were posting :o

just did. I'll have to look at it. right now I'm having problems because of not doing a clean os with my processor swap. so I'm thinking of just going back to xp myself. DX 10 is great, but I really don't mind the difference.
I love the card, just don't like how it takes it with vista... know what I'm saying...

[imperialreign]

just did. I'll have to look at it. right now I'm having problems because of not doing a clean os with my processor swap. so I'm thinking of just going back to xp myself. DX 10 is great, but I really don't mind the difference.
I love the card, just don't like how it takes it with vista... know what I'm saying...

I completely understand - I've worked with Vista, but still refuse to install it for the time being. TBH, DX10 is a poor excuse for the need to upgrade, and really that's the only thing I see truly beneficial over XP. XP can be just as secure - if you know what you're doing. Vista eleiminates, IMO, a lot of responsibiliy on the users part in regards to security.

Anyhow, IIRC, I recall reading somewhere that it is possible to run true DX10 within XP, and I think there are a couple of hacks for it out there . . . but not 100% sure on that.

[Cold Storm]

I really don't care much for vista any more.. ran it since Oct. and I'm just done with it. I'll have xp and window blinds and I'll be set!

I've seen where the dx10 is for xp, but i don't care for it. Its just a little drop that i really don't care for. I'll go with dx10 whenever its needed... Right now its not a thing that is needed to play games... only a few games get a boost from it, and its not worth it. give me xp and I think I'll be good

[imperialreign]

I really don't care much for vista any more.. ran it since Oct. and I'm just done with it. I'll have xp and window blinds and I'll be set!

I've seen where the dx10 is for xp, but i don't care for it. Its just a little drop that i really don't care for. I'll go with dx10 whenever its needed... Right now its not a thing that is needed to play games... only a few games get a boost from it, and its not worth it. give me xp and I think I'll be good

funny thing is - IIRC, DX10 doesn't really bring all too much to the table over DX9. But, considering the average performance drop for gaming in Vista, it doesn't make it worth it, IMO.

I wish they would re-write the audio architecture, though. A lot of audio hardware has issues with Vista, Creative aren't the only ones. Many 3rd party applications also have issues with playback as well, and that's not due to the audio hardware or the specific application.

[Cold Storm]

Yeah, I'm all for vista as being a great os, but because of the fact that there isn't much to work with on hardware or software, then its gets maddening! I love music, and if my card gets to teh fact where if you use it, then it needs a restart or it will bsod, then I'm all for the xp!

I don't do a lot of gaming. Don't have the time too... I like to do multi player games to have fun.. but the ohter stuff is ok... IMO.

[Syborfical]

Running an Xfi in vista is shit.

Why can someone make there own HAck drviers that get all the nice bits working for vista. but the company that make the card can't.

Creative are run by retards end of line .. i hope they go broke ..