Virtual surround sound on the headset

The new Sound Blaster Recon 3D will also provide true surround sound on headphones. It is primarily intended for use in FPS games, compatible with the current systems PC, PS3 and Xbox 360. The connection is made without problems via USB to the PC, the device is detected automatically; but is strongly recommended to install the supplied drivers from Creative and to drive web update. On the PS3 or Xbox, the device is only plugged to the power supply via USB, the sound is transmitted via optical digital cable beliegendem; briefly Select menu the Sound Blaster sound output device and as you go. On the Sound Blaster I have a WaveBlaster HPX gaming headphones connected.

To anticipate the conclusion times, the Sound Blaster Recon 3D creates an outstanding sound experience for headphones. Of course, it is not comparable to a full-fledged DD 5.1 system. Such a one can not connect; the device does not provide external 5.1 sound card for connecting, for example, a laptop to an existing Dolby Digital system is! Of course it is possible to connect the Sound Blaster by RCA, the sound is only stereo, with a virtual surround.

Finally, the Sound Blaster processed both normal stereo signals and digital 6-channel signals and mixes them down, those same virtual surround sound producing. Direction sound and modulation are clearly superior to the respective system directly connected headphones or connected to the TV, including the speakers console. So while a real tontechnisches immersion can be found in the game world here, but I have to cancel something that vaunted feature of Scout Mode. Creative claims that could be perceived earlier and better through the strengthening of certain frequencies Fußgeräusche and thus the approach of enemies in shooters. However, this is in reality my opinion out to be quite useless and creates no advantage. Funny, but not very purposeful is also the feature Crystal Voice, with which the user can change his vote for the game-Talk.

Because the Sound Blaster is now to be able to optimally implement 5.1 signals, I tested him when watching movies on the laptop. While I have a pounding, not a bit overdriven bass on the ears, the imaginary for the satellite speakers signals are so good it distributes possible for stereo on the listener and the front speakers are distributed perfectly, I am disappointed by the reproduction of the Center -Speakers. About this the speech of the acting figures is reproduced standardly. However, this soundtrack is clearly too low given compared to the bombastic sound of the remaining tracks, also slightly distorted for my hearing. Test subject was the remastered version of Star Wars VI: the TIE fighters circled beautifully around my head, but in order to hear Vader I had to make louder. The next space battle flew me for almost ears off, but this top sound ...

However is very good playback and modulation of music. Even YouTube videos, which often do not have the best quality and bitrate, are increasingly honored and rendered. Here, in addition to excellent control software comes into its own; on my system I have had even at maximum bass enhancement no oversteer, but rather excessive thumping disco on the ears.

Pro:
Particularly suitable for consoles +
+ Easy installation and operation
+ Top-sound on headphones
+ Good surround Feeling
+ Delivery (cable / drivers)
+ Stylish design

Cons:
- Volume Down "Center Speaker" with movies in 5.1
- No way to connect 5.1 system
- Scout fashion rather useless
- Designed only for headphone users
- Wireless connection possible only to Creative "Tactic 3D Omega" headset. Slot otherwise useless!