Here is a DAC (digital to analog conversion) Sound Blaster X-Fi HD for multi functions very useful.
Note that this is one of the few cases that offers cheap conversion in both directions (it becomes an ADC, analog to digital).
I will mention only the functions that I use (or tested) :( d there are others: microphone input, input and optical output, multi-channel management, software, settings, various settings, etc ..)
Scan his vinyl disc (prior selection of the phono input on the interface) or with the supplied software Media Toolbox 6 (has a reducing clicks and adjustable breath) or Audacity for example.
Scan any source level "line" (line input selection on the interface).
Listen to the helmet can be the content of the PC or external sources connected to the DAC. (You need, in this case, the PC is according to power via USB the very nice box).
FYI volume potentiometer is endless type (digital)
This external USB sound card is one of the preamps type "DAC" (directly reads digital content from a PC without using the analog part of the PC. (Via the USB connection to mini USB)
Implying "asynchronous" link (this is housing that controls the audio portion of the PC) that the manufacturer does not specify but the Anglo-Saxon users have experienced. (If not, here is not worth the trouble).
The headphone output (I did not use) is honest bill, it lacks the power and roundness in the bass, that my amp YAMAHA AX 497 provides me with its integrated headphone output (live feed)
Edit: I also use ultimately the headphone output because the integrated equalizer of the "Creative Entertainment Console" makes prowess and transforms the audition!
So I use an audio amplifier connected to the output "line" DAC Sound Blaster X-Fi HD. I listen well, or the RIAA phono equalization automatic (or line if I switch via the PC interface) or the contents of the PC (or any distributed audio content).
Well, being a perfectionist, I also made a phono preamp "CAMBRIDGE 551P" I preferably used in this case the output of Cambridge is connected to the line input of the DAC set input "line" course and either "phono".
So why choose this model, PCQ I have not found in this price range, which also makes DAC ADC with forced line input (and helmet optional) you have to put double the price.
The sound reproduction, I can answer honestly because I changed my setup at the same time (adding my old amp YAMAHA AX 497 and a new headset SENNHEISER HD 598) keeping the ELTAX MONITOR I (successful compromise quality / size); but, in summary, I am very happy, the sound seems to me more accurate, despite that I do not have a high quality file, which I do not use the reader "Foobar2000" (one of the few that manages the driver "ASIO").
Driver installation denier Sound Blaster X-Fi HD (online) had to set the PC automatically for an optimal D / A.
Finally, a case that can make you rediscover your sound files (not mp3 128, of course !!!) and will be much more efficient than a sound card!
