Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Creative keeps stabbing at the MP3 market, reveals bantam ZEN X-Fi3]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/creative-keeps-stabbing-at-the-mp3-market-reveals-bantam-zen-x/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/creative-keeps-stabbing-at-the-mp3-market-reveals-bantam-zen-x/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/creative-keeps-stabbing-at-the-mp3-market-reveals-bantam-zen-x/#comments Another IFA, another minuscule ZEN X-Fi media player. And somehow, they manage to get less and less impressive with each passing year. This go 'round, we're looking at the ZEN X-Fi3, equipped with a 2-inch LCD, 8/16GB of internal storage, Bluetooth 2.1, a built-in microphone / FM radio / speaker and a battery that should last up to 20 hours when playing back audio alone. As with prior ZEN units, this one also supports a multitude of file formats (FLAC, AAC, MP3, WMA, Audible, etc.), and for those kosher with watching Alf reruns on a thumb-sized panel, MPEG-4 / WMV9 / DivX video files are also capable of being played back. This guy's slated to ship at the end of October across Europe, but with $99.99 (8GB) / $139.99 (16GB) price tags, we're guessing most are bound to just collect dust. For shame.

Continue reading Creative keeps stabbing at the MP3 market, reveals bantam ZEN X-Fi3

Creative keeps stabbing at the MP3 market, reveals bantam ZEN X-Fi3 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creativeCreative ZEN X-Fi3CreativeZenX-fi3ifaifa 2011Ifa2011media playerMediaPlayermp3 playerMp3Playerpmpportable media playerPortableMediaPlayerx-fiX-Fi3zenZEN X-Fi3ZenX-fi3Thu, 01 Sep 2011 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Gigabyte G1 Assassin motherboard is a last-gen gamer's dream come true]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/25/gigabyte-g1-assassin-motherboard-is-a-last-gen-gamers-dream-com/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/25/gigabyte-g1-assassin-motherboard-is-a-last-gen-gamers-dream-com/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/25/gigabyte-g1-assassin-motherboard-is-a-last-gen-gamers-dream-com/#comments Gigabyte G1 Assasin For a motherboard, the G1 Assassin from Gigabyte sure is gaudy and actually rather interesting. First off, that Killer E2100 networking solution from Bigfoot has been integrated into the board, as has Creative's X-Fi audio. The three-year-old X58 chipset at its heart is starting to look a little long in the tooth but, with support for three-way SLI or four-way CrossFireX, 24GB of RAM, and Intel's Extreme Edition processors, you probably won't miss Sandy Bridge too much. Starting at around $450 the Assassin isn't for everyone, but hardcore gamers determined to squeeze every ounce of performance from of their setup will not be disappointed. The one unfortunate fault of the G1 is timing -- the next-gen of high-end performance parts from Chipzilla are right around the corner. Though, that banana clip-shaped heat sink has to count for something. We know you like benchmarks, so check out the reviews below.

Read - HotHardware
Read - Legit Reviews
Read - Overclock 3D
Read - TechRadar

Gigabyte G1 Assassin motherboard is a last-gen gamer's dream come true originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 25 Jul 2011 12:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bigfootbigfoot networksbigfoot networks killer e2100BigfootNetworksBigfootNetworksKillerE2100creativecreative x-fiCreativeX-ficrossfirexdesktopdesktopsextreme editionExtremeEditiong1g1 assassing1 killerg1.assassinG1AssassinG1Killergigabytegigabyte g1 assassinGigabyteG1Assassinintelintel extreme editionIntelExtremeEditionKiller E2100KillerE2100mobomother boardmother boardsmotherboardMotherBoardsreview roundupReviewRoundupreviewsroundupslix-fix58Mon, 25 Jul 2011 12:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative's Sound Blaster X-Fi Titanium HD gets audiophile preview]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/10/creatives-sound-blaster-x-fi-titanium-hd-gets-audiophile-previe/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/10/creatives-sound-blaster-x-fi-titanium-hd-gets-audiophile-previe/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/10/creatives-sound-blaster-x-fi-titanium-hd-gets-audiophile-previe/#commentsCreative's Sound Blaster X-Fi Titanium HD gets audiophile preview Remember when Creative just made sound cards? Those were the days. The company has lost its way (and its market share) since then, but is trying to trump the competition again with the Sound Blaster X-Fi Titanium HD soundcard. It's a PCIe powerhouse, an upgrade from the previous Fatal1ty-branded model thanks to its golden connectors and better onboard circuitry. What kind of circuitry? There's a NJM4556A dual op-amp, the same used by Grado's headphone amps, two National LME49710 op-amps, and a Burr-Brown PCM1794 DAC. If that's all a meaningless stream of letters and brands to you, don't worry: your on-board audio outputs will continue to do just fine. For those looking for a little more, all that remains to be seen is how Creative's HD offering will stack up against other audiophile-grade soundcards. We hope to be hearing about that very soon.

[Thanks, Wayne]

Creative's Sound Blaster X-Fi Titanium HD gets audiophile preview originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 May 2010 13:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creativecreative labscreative Sound Blaster X-Fi Titanium HDCreativeLabsCreativeSoundBlasterX-fiTitaniumHdpreviewsound blasterSound Blaster X-Fi Titanium HDsoundblasterSoundBlasterX-fiTitaniumHdx-fiMon, 10 May 2010 13:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative rolls out X-Fi 2 SDK, developers now free to craft games and apps]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/10/creative-rolls-out-x-fi-2-sdk-developers-now-free-to-craft-game/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/10/creative-rolls-out-x-fi-2-sdk-developers-now-free-to-craft-game/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/10/creative-rolls-out-x-fi-2-sdk-developers-now-free-to-craft-game/#comments We're going way out on a limb here and guessing that Creative's X-Fi 2 doesn't exactly have an insane amount of the PMP market share, but for those obsessed with its boyish good looks and world-beating user interface, we've got some thrilling news to share. The company has just made public its ADK (Application Development Kit), a Lua-based system where devs are able to "code their own interesting applications and customize the ZEN X-Fi 2." You're also able to "create and debug games and applications right from one's Windows PC," so any Mac loyalists in the house will have to fire up Boot Camp (or similar) in order to dive in. Hit the source to get your download on, and be sure to drop us a line when your riveting new title is ready for public consumption.

[Thanks, Gavin]

Creative rolls out X-Fi 2 SDK, developers now free to craft games and apps originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 20:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ADKcreativecreative X-Fi 2CreativeX-fi2developdevelopersdevelopmentdevelopment kitDevelopmentKitgamesLuapmpSDKsoftwarex-fiX-Fi 2X-fi2zenWed, 10 Feb 2010 20:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative's ZEN X-Fi2 touchscreen PMP now on sale]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/08/creatives-zen-x-fi2-touchscreen-pmp-now-on-sale/http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/08/creatives-zen-x-fi2-touchscreen-pmp-now-on-sale/http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/08/creatives-zen-x-fi2-touchscreen-pmp-now-on-sale/#commentsCandidly speaking, we can't honestly envision too many of you fine folks running out and purchasing one of Creative's new ZEN X-Fi2 portable media players given the availability of such robust alternatives. That said, we'd be remiss of our duties if we didn't point out that the PMP which shocked us at IFA is now on sale directly from Creative. $129.99 buys you an 8GB model, while $179.99 nets you 16GB and $229.99 provides 32GB. We know -- that 3-inch LCD and integrated FM tuner look good from afar, but remember kids, it's all about the UI.

[Thanks, Tyler]

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Creative's ZEN X-Fi2 touchscreen PMP now on sale originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 08 Nov 2009 03:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>availablecreativecreative ZEN X-Fi2CreativeZenX-fi2media playerMediaPlayernow availablenow shippingNowAvailableNowShippingon saleOnSalepmpportable audioportable videoportableaudioportablevideoshipshippingshipsx-fix-fi 2X-fi2zenZEN X-Fi2ZenX-fi2Sun, 08 Nov 2009 03:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative announces Zen X-Fi2 touchscreen PMP (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/02/creative-announces-zen-x-fi2-touchscreen-pmp-video/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/02/creative-announces-zen-x-fi2-touchscreen-pmp-video/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/02/creative-announces-zen-x-fi2-touchscreen-pmp-video/#comments
Creative's Zii EGG may be snagging the majority of headlines for the company these days, but it looks like it's not about to let its regular PMPs fall by the wayside, and it's now announced its new Zen X-Fi2 player that ditches the few buttons found on the original Zen X-Fi in favor of full touchscreen controls. That, of course, also comes with an increase in screen size (to 3-inches), and a new interface that seems to include a few elements from that patent filing we saw a while back. Otherwise, the specs aren't too far off its predecessor, including the same 8GB, 16GB, and 32GB options, a microSD card slot for further expansion, a built-in microphone and FM radio, an RSS reader (which must be synced up with your PC). Still no firm word on a release date, unfortunately, but you can now pre-order it from a number of retailers for $129.99, $179.99, or $229.99, depending on the capacity. Not convinced just yet? Then perhaps smooth jams of the videos after the break will change your mind.

[Thanks, Sim]

Continue reading Creative announces Zen X-Fi2 touchscreen PMP (video)

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Creative announces Zen X-Fi2 touchscreen PMP (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 13:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creativecreative zen xfi2CreativeZenXfi2pmpportable audioportable videoportableaudioportablevideotouchscreentouchscreen pmpTouchscreenPmpx-fix-fi2zenzen x-fizen x-fi2ZenX-fiZenX-fi2Wed, 02 Sep 2009 13:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Auzentech's HDMI 1.3 X-Fi HomeTheater still coming soon, for $249.99]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/11/auzentechs-hdmi-1-3-x-fi-hometheater-still-coming-soon-for-24/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/11/auzentechs-hdmi-1-3-x-fi-hometheater-still-coming-soon-for-24/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/11/auzentechs-hdmi-1-3-x-fi-hometheater-still-coming-soon-for-24/#commentsStill waiting for an alternative to the ASUS Xonar HDMI 1.3 audio card? Auzentech knows your pain and promises its Creative-powered X-Fi HomeTheater 7.1 sound card is on the way in "mid-August." Rather than waiting for actual shipping hardware to lay down your cash, you can, of course, pre-order right now and know that someday bitstreamed or PCM lossless audio from your HTPC will be a reality, though an all-in-one video and audio card is still our most fervent wish. The cost? $249.99, but owners of X-Fi Prelude and X-Meridian sound cards can slash $50 from that price, hit Auzentech's site for the dirty details.

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Auzentech's HDMI 1.3 X-Fi HomeTheater still coming soon, for $249.99 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 12:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7.1auzentechcreativehdhdmi1.3htpcother hardwareotherhardwareotherspci-epci-expresssound cardSoundCardx-fiTue, 11 Aug 2009 12:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative's cheap Zen MX even bores paid product models]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/28/creatives-cheap-zen-mx-even-bores-paid-product-models/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/28/creatives-cheap-zen-mx-even-bores-paid-product-models/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/28/creatives-cheap-zen-mx-even-bores-paid-product-models/#comments
Well what do you know... Creative's still in business and pumping out yet another variation of its Zen media player. The Zen MX features the same played design that Creative's been pushing since 2007 including a 2.5-inch, 320 x 240 pixel display, and SDHC expansion. However, as Creative's new low-end Zen, the MX is stripped of all but its most basic codecs -- MP3, DRM'd WMA, JPG pics, Audible 4, and Creative's own CMV video format are all that remain. The result is 8GB and 16GB Zen MX players hitting Japan (and presumably elsewhere) on May 5th for ¥9,800 (about $102) and ¥13,800 (about $144), respectively. Oh, and Creative also cut the price of its 32GB/16GB/8GB Zen X-Fi players. A move that would usually indicate an attempt to clear out inventory as the company prepares for a new flag-ship product. However, given the global economic situation and Creative's own internal meltdown, let's just say we're not too hopeful.

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Creative's cheap Zen MX even bores paid product models originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 28 Apr 2009 03:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creativejapanportable audioportable videoportableaudioportablevideopriceprice cutPriceCutx-fizenzen mpzen x-fiZenMpZenX-fiziiTue, 28 Apr 2009 03:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative announces more unimpressive X-Fi gear]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/17/creative-announces-more-unimpressive-x-fi-gear/http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/17/creative-announces-more-unimpressive-x-fi-gear/http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/17/creative-announces-more-unimpressive-x-fi-gear/#comments
It's hard to believe that something this banal could required a press event -- it's like the Apple Hi-Fi event all over again. Nevertheless, Creative duped a bunch of journalists into an in-person showing of their $90 Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook Sound Card and $270 Creative Wireless Receiver. Sure, the combo allows you to stream that premium X-Fi audio wirelessly from your laptop to any speaker in the house, but that's something we've been doing since, oh, 1999 for crissake. While you can argue the merits of X-Fi fidelity (which doesn't match the hype based on our own experience and that of others), we can't help but wonder if Creative has completely lost its way in the portable audio and video marketplace.

[Via Nothing But Creative]

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Creative announces more unimpressive X-Fi gear originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 17 Sep 2008 07:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creativeportable audioportableaudiowirelessx-fiWed, 17 Sep 2008 07:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative hosting event on 17th, new X-Fi products expected]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/12/creative-hosting-event-on-17th-new-x-fi-products-expected/http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/12/creative-hosting-event-on-17th-new-x-fi-products-expected/http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/12/creative-hosting-event-on-17th-new-x-fi-products-expected/#comments
That's an honest to goodness media invite from Creative. The kind sent to tease us into attending product launches. So it's natural to expect something new from Creative when this thing kicks off on September 17th. Will we finally see the launch of Creative's long-rumored, and sorely-needed evolution to the Zen Vision or just more gear of notable sound quality but questionable build and interface design? We shall see.

[Thanks, Brandon L.]

Creative hosting event on 17th, new X-Fi products expected originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 12 Sep 2008 05:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creativeteaserx-fiFri, 12 Sep 2008 05:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative's Zen Mozaic, X-Fi players hands-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/30/creatives-zen-mozaic-x-fi-players-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/30/creatives-zen-mozaic-x-fi-players-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/30/creatives-zen-mozaic-x-fi-players-hands-on/#comments
We won't belabor these two: X-Fi has been spotted plenty of times before, and the Zen Mozaic "is a crap," as our friends at Engadget Spanish put it. There was no functioning WiFi to test out the X-Fi's networking features, but they looked pretty tedious on the surface, and the player is otherwise okay but unimpressive. Meanwhile, the Zen Mozaic is just another in a long line of shoddily built -- if interesting looking -- low-end DAPs from Creative. Next!

Gallery: Creative's Zen Mozaic, X-Fi players hands-on

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Creative's Zen Mozaic, X-Fi players hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 30 Aug 2008 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creativefeatureshands-onifaifa 2008Ifa2008portable audioportable videoportableaudioportablevideox-fizen mozaicZenMozaicSat, 30 Aug 2008 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative X-Fi Go! mobile sound card set to appear at IFA]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/27/creative-x-fi-go-mobile-sound-card-set-to-appear-at-ifa/http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/27/creative-x-fi-go-mobile-sound-card-set-to-appear-at-ifa/http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/27/creative-x-fi-go-mobile-sound-card-set-to-appear-at-ifa/#commentsCreative isn't showing off too much new stuff at IFA this week, but we should be hearing about the X-Fi Go! mobile sound card, which looks to be an update on the old Soundblaster Play!. The tiny USB 2.0 stick packs in quite of bit of audio-tweaking magic, with Crystallizer, CMSS-3D, EAX Advanced HD and OpenAL support, as well as 1GB of flash storage preloaded with Alchemy, WaveStudio, and other apps. Available now in Singapore for S$79 ($56), we'd guess it'll be similarly priced when it hits Stateside.

[Via Electronista]

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Creative X-Fi Go! mobile sound card set to appear at IFA originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 27 Aug 2008 21:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creativeportable sound cardPortableSoundCardsound cardSoundCardusb sound cardUsbSoundCardx fix fi gox-fix-fi goX-fiGoXFiXFiGoWed, 27 Aug 2008 21:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative rolls out (working) driver update for X-Fi cards]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/31/creative-rolls-out-working-driver-update-for-x-fi-cards/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/31/creative-rolls-out-working-driver-update-for-x-fi-cards/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/31/creative-rolls-out-working-driver-update-for-x-fi-cards/#commentsWhile at least one enterprising individual did his best to get Creative's X-Fi sound cards to play nice with Vista, Creative wasn't exactly keen on that idea and apparently decided to have a go at updating its drivers itself instead (go figure). Among other things, the new, long overdue drivers supposedly fix the problematic Dolby Digital and DTS decoding, and they add DVD Audio playback, which previously worked under Windows XP but not in Vista -- you know, the little things. Hit up the link below to find the link to the drivers themselves, which work with all X-Fi cards except the X-Fi Extreme Audio, which is clearly so "Extreme" it doesn't need driver updates.

[Thanks, Bamboo]

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Creative rolls out (working) driver update for X-Fi cards originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 31 Jul 2008 11:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creativedriverdriver updateDriverUpdatesound cardSoundCardx-fiThu, 31 Jul 2008 11:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative ZEN X-Fi reviewed, but mostly just taken apart]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/21/creative-zen-x-fi-reviewed-but-mostly-just-taken-apart/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/21/creative-zen-x-fi-reviewed-but-mostly-just-taken-apart/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/21/creative-zen-x-fi-reviewed-but-mostly-just-taken-apart/#comments
Not a ton's changed with Creative's ZEN X-Fi -- which we all well know at this point -- so for right now we're just paying closer attention to its innards all broken out like a science fair project. Careful, the teardown link below contains graphic representations of disrobed consumer electronics.

[Thanks, Josh and Mindy]

Read - Zen X-Fi teardown
Read - Anything But iPod's review
Read - Pocketables review

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Creative ZEN X-Fi reviewed, but mostly just taken apart originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Jul 2008 03:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creativeportable audioportable videoportableaudioportablevideoteardownx-fizenzen x-fiZenX-fiMon, 21 Jul 2008 03:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative's 16GB / 32GB ZEN X-Fi PMPs now on sale in America]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/16/creatives-16gb-32gb-zen-x-fi-pmps-now-on-sale-in-america/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/16/creatives-16gb-32gb-zen-x-fi-pmps-now-on-sale-in-america/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/16/creatives-16gb-32gb-zen-x-fi-pmps-now-on-sale-in-america/#comments
It's one thing to say "available now." It's another thing to give consumers a "Buy Now" button. For those of you anxious to plunk down a few bills and some spare change to bring home one of Creative's new WiFi-equipped ZEN X-Fi units, today's your lucky day. The 16GB edition is shipping now from Amazon for $199.99, while the 32GB sibling demands $279.99. Order away... or not, totally up to you.

[Thanks, Mickey J.]

Read - 16GB ZEN X-Fi
Read - 32GB ZEN X-Fi

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Creative's 16GB / 32GB ZEN X-Fi PMPs now on sale in America originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 16 Jul 2008 06:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazoncreativeon saleOnSalepmpportable audioportable videoportableaudioportablevideox-fizenWed, 16 Jul 2008 06:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative gets really official with ZEN X-Fi as it appears in the wild]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/14/creative-finally-gets-really-official-with-zen-x-fi-as-it-appear/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/14/creative-finally-gets-really-official-with-zen-x-fi-as-it-appear/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/14/creative-finally-gets-really-official-with-zen-x-fi-as-it-appear/#comments
Quite a bit went down before Creative decided to really fess up about its ZEN X-Fi (at least in the US), but if you've managed to resist the urge to believe this thing was real, here's the documentation you've been yearning for. The ZEN X-Fi (8GB; $149.99) and ZEN X-Fi with Wireless (16GB; $199.99 / 32GB; $299.99) are both being made official today, and while the latter is available now from an array of reputable e-tailers, the WiFi-less iteration won't hit stores until "later this month." You can also expect a ZEN X-Fi docking speaker station to emerge sometime this summer for $49.99. For those curious to see how this critter looks in the flesh (not to mention how it performs), head on down to the links below -- oh, and there's a video of the bugger waiting after the jump.

[Via PMP Today]

Read - Creative ZEN X-Fi press release
Read - Creative ZEN X-Fi review / in the wild

Continue reading Creative gets really official with ZEN X-Fi as it appears in the wild

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Creative gets really official with ZEN X-Fi as it appears in the wild originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 14 Jul 2008 10:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creativein the wildInTheWildofficialpicturespmpportable audioportable videoportableaudioportablevideoreviewreviewedvideox-fizenMon, 14 Jul 2008 10:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative Zen X-Fi gets US pricing details]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/11/creative-zen-x-fi-gets-us-pricing-details/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/11/creative-zen-x-fi-gets-us-pricing-details/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/11/creative-zen-x-fi-gets-us-pricing-details/#comments
Creative's got a good thing going with the multifaceted Zen X-Fi -- at least on paper -- and we're quite thrilled to see it already hitting the websites of US e-tailers. Announced earlier this week in Singapore, the well-equipped PMP should be available soon (no specific ship date is mentioned) in 8GB ($149.99), 16GB ($199.99) and 32GB ($279.99) models. Interestingly, the 8GB iteration doesn't seem to include built-in WiFi based on the cryptic header over at Buy.com, but we suspect we'll have to wait things out a bit longer before jumping to too many conclusions.

[Thanks, Dr. Slo]

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Creative Zen X-Fi gets US pricing details originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 Jul 2008 20:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creativepmpportable audioportable videoportableaudioportablevideopricepricespricingx-fizenFri, 11 Jul 2008 20:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative makes the X-Fi official, drops it with Red Cliff special edition]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/09/creative-makes-the-x-fi-official-drops-it-with-red-cliff-specia/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/09/creative-makes-the-x-fi-official-drops-it-with-red-cliff-specia/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/09/creative-makes-the-x-fi-official-drops-it-with-red-cliff-specia/#commentsCreative X-Fi Red Cliff
So here we have it: The Creative Zen X-Fi. Officially announced by Creative in Singapore, the X-Fi is what we expected: a Wi-Fi-capable player with Yahoo and MSN instant-messaging clients, 2.5-inch LCD, onboard speaker, SD/SDHC expansion, FM radio, voice recorder, and 8GB, 16GB, and 32GB flavors for the taking. In surprise territory we have a bundled pair of nice EP-830 earbuds and Creative's X-Fi Crystalizer technology. If that weren't enough, Creative spiced up the X-Fi's launch with limited-edition Red Cliff editions (pictured above). Along with the player's launch, Creative announced several accessories, including the TravelSound Zen X-Fi Docking Speaker System, Armband, Silicone case, and leather case. Still no word when we'll get our hands on the X-Fi here, but Singapore prices come in at S$229 ($145US), S$329 ($209US), and S$399 ($254US) for the various models.

[Thanks, yutaka]

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Creative makes the X-Fi official, drops it with Red Cliff special edition originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 Jul 2008 22:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Somebody call grandma, Creative's Zen X-Fi player just passed its FCC exam and is now ready to make a living on its own. While most of the information is locked down, it's pretty clear by that label that we can expect at least one version of the X-Fi to ship with 32GB of flash memory. Testing was done across a trio of 802.11b/g channels so that's a lock as well. While an appearance on the FCC site doesn't guarantee that the device will be sold in the US (we're looking at you, Japanese FOMA phones), we're guessing that a US launch announcement will come any day now. Although at this point, we'd settle for Creative just making the X-Fi series official so all this speculation can come to an end.

[Via Pocketables]

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Creative's Zen X-Fi player gets right with the FCC originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 04:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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In case you missed it over the weekend, that's Creative's new ZEN X-Fi player with WiFi, instant messaging client, and built-in media streaming. Or so says EpiZENter. Why limit the device to just these capabilities? We're not sure, though we don't have all the details yet. Besides the built-in speaker, SD slot, FM tuner and voice recorder features we're now hearing that the player pictured will include "premium quality headphones" in the box and a battery rated for 36 hours of audio and 5 hours of video -- although it's unclear if that's with WiFi on or off (likely off). It'll also support MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV, and Audible audio as well as WMV, MPEG4-SP, DivX 4/5, Xvid, and MJPEG video formats. Otherwise, it's presumed to be sporting a 2.5-inch display like its existing Zens in 8, 16, and 32GB capacities whenever it might feel fit to pop for retail. Ok Creative, you've got our attention again; not so much for this device as to the mystery of what the "ZEN X-Fi series" might have to offer. Go ahead, impress us... this might be your last chance.

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ZEN X-Fi: more details with a touch of meh originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 Jun 2008 03:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Creative kids over at epiZENter have what looks to be a genuine scoop of an unannounced ZEN X-Fi. Not only did they receive this supposedly leaked photo, they also managed to dig out a "ZEN X-Fi Starter Pack" (software and user guide) from the bowels of Creative's own site. Accordingly, we're looking at a new DAP with SD expansion and built-in WiFi, speaker, FM tuner, voice recorder, and the ability to stream media from Creative's "Public Media Server." Additionally, users can chat with Yahoo! Messenger and Microsoft Live! users thanks to the 9-button, cellphone-like keypad. More details and genuflecting lie just beyond the read link.

[Thanks Tony and everyone who sent this in]

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Creative's ZEN X-Fi player with WiFi gets a lot more real originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 29 Jun 2008 06:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Auzen X-Fi HomeTheater 7.1 HDMI sound card does bitstream output from your HTPC originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audioAuzenAuzen X-Fi HomeTheater 7.1AuzentechAuzenX-fiHometheater7.1bitstreamblu rayblu-rayblurayCreativecyberlinkdolbydts-hddts-hd madts-hd master audioDts-hdMaDts-hdMasterAudiohdhdmihdmi sound cardHdmiSoundCardhome theaterHomeTheaterlosslessmulti-channelNVIDIAother hardwareotherhardwareotherspcieportsSilicon ImageSiliconImagesoundsound cardSoundCardspeakerssurround soundSurroundSoundtrue hdTrueHdX-FiFri, 20 Jun 2008 11:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Auzen X-Fi HomeTheater 7.1 HDMI sound card does bitstream output from your HTPC]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/20/auzen-x-fi-hometheater-7-1-hdmi-sound-card-does-bitstream-output/http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/20/auzen-x-fi-hometheater-7-1-hdmi-sound-card-does-bitstream-output/http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/20/auzen-x-fi-hometheater-7-1-hdmi-sound-card-does-bitstream-output/#commentsEarlier this month, ASUS introduced the "world's first HDMI 1.3a compliant audio / video enhancement combo card." Who knew numero dos was so close behind? Auzentech has just announced its very own HDMI 1.3-native PCIe audio combo card, which is built around Creative's X-Fi processor and enables PC users to easily output 7.1-channel audio with no downsampling. Essentially, the Auzen X-Fi HomeTheater 7.1 "accepts video from either an internal or external connection, mixes it with digital audio, and outputs the combined video and lossless multichannel audio via a single HDMI 1.3 port." Yep, that means Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio codecs are fully supported. The only digs? For one, pricing remains a mystery, but the real kicker is the September release -- talk about a long wait.

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Auzen X-Fi HomeTheater 7.1 HDMI sound card does bitstream output from your HTPC originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audioAuzenAuzen X-Fi HomeTheater 7.1AuzentechAuzenX-fiHometheater7.1bitstreamCreativecyberlinkdolbydts-hddts-hd madts-hd master audioDts-hdMaDts-hdMasterAudiohdmihdmi sound cardHdmiSoundCardhome theaterHomeTheaterlosslessmedia pcmedia pcsmediapcmediapcsmulti-channelNVIDIApcieportable audioportableaudioSilicon ImageSiliconImagesoundsound cardSoundCardsurround soundSurroundSoundtrue hdTrueHdX-FiFri, 20 Jun 2008 11:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative ditches Zen Share WiFi player, X-Fi DAP might be in the works]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/05/27/creative-ditches-zen-share-wifi-player-x-fi-dap-might-be-in-the/http://www.engadget.com/2008/05/27/creative-ditches-zen-share-wifi-player-x-fi-dap-might-be-in-the/http://www.engadget.com/2008/05/27/creative-ditches-zen-share-wifi-player-x-fi-dap-might-be-in-the/#comments Creative got some Jello-O knees in the run-up to launching Zen Share, its WiFi-enabled PMP, and decided to quit the project altogether. The company is blaming "technical complications," which we have a suspicion is shorthand for "building the necessary software to make WiFi helpful in a DAP is harder than we anticipated." That's too bad, but have no fear: Creative is replacing the project with a player due in the next two months that will sport an "exciting" design. We know, you're so excited right now. Rumor has it that the player could be an X-Fi-branded DAP with a metal back and X-Fi audio processing. Creative also confirmed that it's moving exclusively to flash memory.

[Via Electronista]

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Creative ditches Zen Share WiFi player, X-Fi DAP might be in the works originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 May 2008 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Considering that you've already spent way too much on that totally over-hyped Killer NIC, why not humor yourself further by snagging a sound card with Johnathan Wendel's prints on it. Proving once again that everyone does indeed have a price, famed gamer Fatal1ty has placed his highly respected seal of approval on a new duo of sound cards from Creative. The PCI Express Sound Blaster X-Fi Titanium Fatal1ty Professional Series and PCI Express Sound Blaster X-Fi Titanium Fatal1ty Champion Series devices boast the X-Fi enhancements you've come to expect, vivid new designs, unmistakable packaging and the assurance that the latter is the "official sound card of the CGS." As for pricing, the Pro edition is available to pre-order for $149.99, while the CGS model adds in an internal I/O drive and demands $199.99. Hit the read link for more detailed specifications and way too much gloating.

[Via CustomPC]

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Creative reveals Fatal1ty-approved Sound Blaster X-Fi Titanium originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 16 May 2008 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Creative is stretching that X-Fi family once more, this time with its external Sound Blaster X-Fi Surround 5.1. The USB-powered device is apparently geared towards laptops (well, ones without ExpressCard slots) itching for surround sound, and aside from the unicorn-like 24-bit Crystalizer and CMSS-3D technologies, you'll find RCA outputs, an optical digital audio output, headphone out / microphone in jacks and all those X-Fi enhancements you're sure to end up overlooking. It's available now for the halfway respectable price of $59.99.

[Via CNET]

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Creative offers up USB-enabled Sound Blaster X-Fi Surround 5.1 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 13 May 2008 01:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's been a little while since we've seen a new X-Fi device from Creative, but it looks like the company's now set to expand it's audio-enhancing empire a bit further, with its new X30 iPod dock apparently nearly ready for a release. While there's unfortunately no wireless streaming going on here, the dock will at least let you hook your iPod up to a stereo or pair of speakers, as well as a TV thanks to the dock's s-video port, with that much-hyped X-Fi technology promising to make everything sound better than ever. Look for this one to set you back just under €80 (or about $125) when it hits Europe next month -- no word on a release 'round these parts just yet.

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Creative set to release X-Fi-equipped X30 iPod dock originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 Mar 2008 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creativeipod dockIpodDockportable audioportableaudiox-fix30Fri, 14 Mar 2008 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative introduces the Aurvana noise-cancelling DJ headphones with X-Fi]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/18/creative-introduces-the-aurvana-noise-cancelling-dj-headphones-w/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/18/creative-introduces-the-aurvana-noise-cancelling-dj-headphones-w/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/18/creative-introduces-the-aurvana-noise-cancelling-dj-headphones-w/#commentsCreative continues to roll out its X-Fi audio enhancement technology across its product line, this time in the latest addition to the Aurvana headphone line. The noise-canceling headphones rock the classic DJ style and feature a frequency response of 20Hz - 20kHz, as well side-mounted controls for the X-Fi modes, which Creative claims restores audio information lost during digital compression. No word on pricing or availability, but Creative isn't shy about getting its products out there, so chances are you'll know when these things hit.

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Creative introduces the Aurvana noise-cancelling DJ headphones with X-Fi originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Aug 2007 07:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Creative has already extended its X-Fi audio processing technology beyond its sound cards (most recently to iPods), but it now looks to be trying to plant the sound-boosting gear in the rest of your house, and it's hoping that its new Xmod Wireless system will be the device to do it. As with its other X-Fi products, Creative is boasting that the system will make "MP3s sound better than CDs," with no setup or configuration required. Unlike the standard standard Xmod device, however, you won't have to sit at your computer to enjoy that impressive, if somewhat questionable feat, with the main Xmod Wireless unit able to transmit tunes to up to four receivers within a 100 foot range (only one is included). You're also apparently able to use the included remote with both the transmitter and receiver to control volume, song selection, and other functions. There's no WiFi here though, just the good 'ol 2.4GHz frequency -- which would seem to open up the possibility of interference, although Creative seems confident that won't be a problem. If you want to check it out for yourself, you can snag the bundle of one transmitter and one receiver now for $200, and as many additional receivers as you like for $100 apiece.

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Creative intros Xmod Wireless sound system originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 May 2007 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Creative has already extended its X-Fi audio processing technology beyond its sound cards (most recently to iPods), but it now looks to be trying to plant the sound-boosting gear in the rest of your house, and it's hoping that its new Xmod Wireless system will be the device to do it. As with its other X-Fi products, Creative is boasting that the system will make "MP3s sound better than CDs," with no setup or configuration required. Unlike the standard standard Xmod device, however, you won't have to sit at your computer to enjoy that impressive, if somewhat questionable feat, with the main Xmod Wireless unit able to transmit tunes to up to four receivers within a 100 foot range (only one is included). You're also apparently able to use the included remote with both the transmitter and receiver to control volume, song selection, and other functions. There's no WiFi here though, just the good 'ol 2.4GHz frequency -- which would seem to open up the possibility of interference, although Creative seems confident that won't be a problem. If you want to check it out for yourself, you can snag the bundle of one transmitter and one receiver now for $200, and as many additional receivers as you like for $100 apiece.

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Creative intros Xmod Wireless sound system originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 May 2007 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creativex-fixmodxmod wirelessXmodWirelessWed, 23 May 2007 12:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative releases Xdock, i600, and i500 iPod docks]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/04/11/creative-releases-xdock-i600-and-i500-ipod-docks/http://www.engadget.com/2007/04/11/creative-releases-xdock-i600-and-i500-ipod-docks/http://www.engadget.com/2007/04/11/creative-releases-xdock-i600-and-i500-ipod-docks/#commentsCreative Xdock Wireless for iPodsCreative continues to cater to the iPod crowd with three new lines of docking accessories for Apple's players, including two with speakers, and one for pairing with home theaters or televisions. The X-Fi Sound System i600 is a copy of Creative's Z600 for Zen Vision:M, and the Playdock i500 and TravelSound i are modifications of the Zen's Z500 and TravelSound Zen V, all three going the built-in speaker route. Finally, the Xdock Wireless, which we first saw at CES, connects wirelessly to X-Fi remote receivers. From there it's wired to powered speakers or a home theater through line out, digital audio, S-video, or composite. Now let's hope Creative will put some of that iPod accessory income to good use building the next Zen Vision player.

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Creative releases Xdock, i600, and i500 iPod docks originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Apr 2007 16:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesapplecreativedockhdipodother hardwareotherhardwarex-fizenWed, 11 Apr 2007 16:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative releases Xdock, i600, and i500 iPod docks]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/04/11/creative-releases-xdock-i600-and-i500-ipod-docks/http://www.engadget.com/2007/04/11/creative-releases-xdock-i600-and-i500-ipod-docks/http://www.engadget.com/2007/04/11/creative-releases-xdock-i600-and-i500-ipod-docks/#commentsCreative Xdock Wireless for iPodsCreative continues to cater to the iPod crowd with three new lines of docking accessories for Apple's players, including two with speakers, and one for pairing with home theaters or televisions. The X-Fi Sound System i600 is a copy of Creative's Z600 for Zen Vision:M, and the Playdock i500 and TravelSound i are modifications of the Zen's Z500 and TravelSound Zen V, all three going the built-in speaker route. Finally, the Xdock Wireless, which we first saw at CES, connects wirelessly to X-Fi remote receivers. From there it's wired to powered speakers or a home theater through line out, digital audio, S-video, or composite. Now let's hope Creative will put some of that iPod accessory income to good use building the next Zen Vision player.

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Creative releases Xdock, i600, and i500 iPod docks originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Apr 2007 16:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesapplecreativedockipodportable audioportableaudiox-fizenWed, 11 Apr 2007 16:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative's Sound Blaster X-Fi gets ExpressCard makeover]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/24/creatives-sound-blaster-x-fi-gets-expresscard-makeover/http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/24/creatives-sound-blaster-x-fi-gets-expresscard-makeover/http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/24/creatives-sound-blaster-x-fi-gets-expresscard-makeover/#comments
Creative's long-standing X-Fi lineup is set to take on yet another member, as the company unveils a truly mobile form that will utilize your oh-so-lonely ExpressCard slot. Sure, you could've been enjoying the X-Fi niceties on your lappie for some time now via the external USB module, but the forthcoming iteration tidies up the breakout-box mess by cramming the bulk of the magic right inside your laptop's casing. The Xtreme Audio Notebook card touts an optical out / headphone jack, optical in / microphone port (seen after the jump), and a connector to sync up the presumably included external module, which will likely add even more connectivity options for use in park. Sadly, there's no word yet on when this device will hit store shelves, nor how much it'll cost you when it finally does, but if you've managed to hold off on buying one of the less glamorous external options in hopes of this one becoming a reality, you're probably sold regardless.

[Via DailyTech]

Continue reading Creative's Sound Blaster X-Fi gets ExpressCard makeover

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Creative's Sound Blaster X-Fi gets ExpressCard makeover originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 24 Mar 2007 23:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audigycreativeexpresscardportable audioportableaudiosound blastersound cardSoundBlasterSoundCardx-fiSat, 24 Mar 2007 23:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative X-Fi Sound System Z600 rolls in this week for $400]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/11/21/creative-x-fi-sound-system-z600-rolls-in-this-week-for-400/http://www.engadget.com/2006/11/21/creative-x-fi-sound-system-z600-rolls-in-this-week-for-400/http://www.engadget.com/2006/11/21/creative-x-fi-sound-system-z600-rolls-in-this-week-for-400/#comments Alright Zen fanboys, your Singaporean mothership has just come out with a new dock for that Zen Vision: M, dubbed the Creative X-Fi Sound System Z600. Like it says in the name, this dock has that new X-Fi stuff that Creative touts as being able to restore compressed audio to CD quality. Of course there's also the usual inclusions, like a remote, an 8-inch woofer and a pair of tweeters to round out the setup as well; the gear can be yours when it drops in the US on November 24 for $400. Creative also announced a couple other sound docks, the PlayDock Z500 and the TravelSound Zen V -- but if you're an astute reader of Engadget, you already knew about those well before the official announcement.

[Via Far East Gizmos]

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Creative X-Fi Sound System Z600 rolls in this week for $400 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Nov 2006 08:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creativedocksportable audioportableaudiosingaporex-fizenTue, 21 Nov 2006 08:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative Xmod external X-Fi device reviewed]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/10/19/creative-xmod-external-x-fi-device-reviewed/http://www.engadget.com/2006/10/19/creative-xmod-external-x-fi-device-reviewed/http://www.engadget.com/2006/10/19/creative-xmod-external-x-fi-device-reviewed/#commentsWhile we're always down with products that make our tunes sound better, claims such as "making your compressed audio files sound better than the original CD" (rightfully) provoke a certain level of skepticism. After glancing over the external X-Fi module, our worries of being duped on yet another product not worth its weight in gold have been surprisingly eased, as the folks over at CNET have taken Creative's Xmod through its paces and now want one of their own. While reviewers shared our same concerns initially, those doubts were quickly squashed as they listened to both MP3s and CDs through the device, and found that the "CMSS 3D and Crystalizer" enhancers actually did make music sound "substantially" better. It was noted that instead of just boosting levels, the unit "fills in the data that was originally trashed during compression" with deeper lows and cleaner highs -- an impressive feat indeed. The only digs were its lack of an included AC adapter (you're forced to use USB power) and subsequently, its honest inability to be used as a mobile solution. Overall, it was deemed an "impressive" device at $79, but we suppose it's just one of those things you have to hear to believe.

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Creative Xmod external X-Fi device reviewed originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 19 Oct 2006 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creativeCrystalizedmp3portable audioportableaudioreviewreviewedx-fixmodThu, 19 Oct 2006 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative announces Xmod external X-Fi module]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/10/03/creative-announces-xmod-external-x-fi-module/http://www.engadget.com/2006/10/03/creative-announces-xmod-external-x-fi-module/http://www.engadget.com/2006/10/03/creative-announces-xmod-external-x-fi-module/#commentsCreative's much-ballyhooed X-Fi audio processing technology has been available in dedicated sound cards for some time, but the company's now seen fit to set it free from its PCI confines, announcing the more versatile and equally Xtreme Xmod external unit. As with other X-Fi gear, the Xmod promises to dramatically improve sound quality, with Creative even going so far as to claim that your MP3, WMA, or AAC files will sound better than the original CD quality (it says so in the press release, so it must be true). The difference with this unit, of course, is that you don't have to crack open your box to use it -- which also means that you can use it with a laptop or MP3 player. To do so, you simply connect the Xmod between your computer or MP3 player and your speakers or headphones, plug in the USB cable (or in the case of an MP3 player, the optional AC adapter) and let the magic happen. If you're skeptical (though we can't see why you would be) you'll be able to snag one of these later this month for $80 and check it out for yo' self.

UPDATE: That was quick, generationmp3 already has hands-on shots of the Xmod. Peep a couple pictures after the break or head on over for the full set.

[Thanks, Pete]

Continue reading Creative announces Xmod external X-Fi module

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Creative announces Xmod external X-Fi module originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 Oct 2006 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creativeportable audioportableaudiox-fixmodTue, 03 Oct 2006 15:25:00 EST