Asus Strix SOAR 7.1 PCIe Gaming Sound Card

Asus Strix SOAR 7.1 PCIe Gaming Sound Card — image 1
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84%
94%
Audio Performance
91%
Surround Sound Clarity
89%
Headphone Amplifier
65%
Ease of Installation
88%
Latency & Gaming Performance
84%
Build Quality
87%
Compatibility with Windows 8+
75%
Software/Driver Support
92%
Value for Money
79%
Customer Support
82%
Size & Weight
85%
Durability & Long-Term Value
More

Overview

The Asus Strix SOAR 7.1 PCIe Gaming Sound Card delivers a high-quality audio experience with immersive 7.1 surround sound via PCIe. It’s compatible with both PCs and laptops running Windows 8 and above, offering an easy upgrade to your existing sound setup. With this ASUS sound card, you can enjoy a more dynamic and clear audio experience, whether you're gaming, watching movies, or listening to music. The product is built to enhance your overall entertainment experience, delivering richer sound for all types of media.

Features & Benefits

This gaming sound card is equipped with Dolby Digital and DTS support, elevating your gaming and media experiences with immersive audio effects. The built-in headphone amplifier ensures powerful audio output and can drive high-impedance headphones without distortion. Additionally, the low-latency performance makes it an excellent choice for gamers who require responsive sound during fast-paced gameplay. The 7.1 virtual surround sound provides a rich and detailed audio environment, ideal for fully enjoying the latest games or high-quality music.

Best For

The Asus Strix SOAR 7.1 PCIe Gaming Sound Card is ideal for gamers seeking high-quality, immersive sound experiences. It’s also well-suited for PC users looking to upgrade their audio performance with a dedicated card. Whether you're using a desktop or laptop, this PCIe audio card provides a significant boost in audio fidelity. If you're after enhanced sound clarity, this product is a great choice for gamers and media enthusiasts alike, delivering a step up from basic built-in audio solutions.

User Feedback

Users generally appreciate the clear and detailed sound this ASUS sound card produces, especially with headphones. Many note its immersive surround sound experience, which adds a new layer to their gaming and movie watching. However, some users have reported that installation can be tricky on older PCs, particularly with drivers. Despite this, the headphone amplifier receives positive feedback, with users praising its ability to drive even demanding headphones. The low-latency performance also stands out, providing an edge in fast-paced gaming scenarios.

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Pros

  • The 7.1 virtual surround sound provides immersive and detailed audio for gaming and media.
  • Low-latency performance ensures real-time audio for competitive gaming applications.
  • The built-in headphone amplifier delivers powerful sound, enhancing audio clarity for high-impedance headphones.
  • Compatible with both desktop and laptop PCs running Windows 8 or above, offering broad usability.
  • Supports Dolby Digital and DTS audio formats, improving overall sound quality and effects.
  • Easy to install on modern systems, with minimal software configuration needed.

Cons

  • Installation can be tricky on older PCs, particularly with outdated operating systems.
  • Some users report that the device is bulky, potentially causing compatibility issues with compact PC cases.
  • The sound card may not fully benefit users with low-end or standard headphones.
  • While compatible with many systems, it may not work optimally with older Windows versions.
  • Some users have found the software interface to be less intuitive and a bit confusing.
  • Not ideal for those who prefer simple plug-and-play audio solutions without advanced settings.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple countries, languages, and platforms, we’ve gathered a comprehensive view of the Asus Strix SOAR 7.1 PCIe Gaming Sound Card. Spam, bot-generated, and exaggerated reviews were filtered out, ensuring only authentic feedback was used to shape these ratings. Both the strengths and pain points identified by real users have been considered in the following scores, which reflect diverse experiences with this product across the globe.

Audio Performance
94%
Many users highlight the impressive sound quality provided by this device, especially its crisp high tones and deep bass. The 7.1 virtual surround sound is a standout, making it ideal for immersive gaming and media experiences. The audio output is rich and detailed, enhancing the overall entertainment experience.
However, some users mention that the sound output may not be as clear for those using low-end headphones or speakers. A few buyers also report that it requires more fine-tuning to achieve optimal sound quality, particularly when playing certain types of media.
Surround Sound Clarity
91%
Users rave about the clarity of the surround sound, which creates a fully immersive experience while gaming or watching movies. The positioning of sounds feels very realistic, helping users identify in-game movements and actions more accurately. This feature makes the audio card a great choice for competitive gamers.
Despite the overall positive feedback, a few users feel that the surround sound could be more balanced at lower volumes. Some buyers also reported that the sound wasn't as effective when using certain audio equipment that isn't fully compatible with surround sound technology.
Headphone Amplifier
89%
The built-in headphone amplifier has been highly praised, as it provides ample power for even high-impedance headphones. Users love how this feature enhances the clarity and volume without distorting the sound, offering a significant improvement over standard onboard audio solutions.
However, some users with lower-end or older headphones feel that the amplifier doesn't add much value, as the difference in sound quality isn't as pronounced. Additionally, a small number of users noted that the headphone amplifier can introduce a slight hum or interference when used with specific setups.
Ease of Installation
65%
35%
While many users report a relatively straightforward installation process, some appreciate the intuitive driver setup, making it easy for most PC users. Once installed, the card is recognized immediately, and drivers update seamlessly.
Installation, however, can be tricky for those with older systems or unfamiliar with PCIe hardware. A few buyers encountered compatibility issues with older PCs, requiring extra troubleshooting. Some even had to seek help to get it up and running, leading to frustration.
Latency & Gaming Performance
88%
The low-latency performance of this audio card makes it an excellent choice for gamers. Many users report that sound is delivered in real-time without noticeable delay, enhancing the gaming experience, particularly for fast-paced titles. The optimized gaming performance is widely appreciated in competitive environments.
A small number of users experienced occasional lag or delayed audio during intense gameplay, especially when running resource-heavy applications. These issues were often linked to system configurations or improper settings, but some buyers still found it frustrating.
Build Quality
84%
The build quality of this sound card is solid, with many users noting its durable construction. The card is well-built and feels robust, with good quality materials used for the components. The sleek design also fits well in most gaming PCs, offering a professional appearance.
However, some users mentioned that the card is a bit bulky, which may pose a challenge for users with smaller cases or limited internal space. A few buyers also noted that the cooling system could have been slightly improved, as it occasionally runs a bit warmer under heavy load.
Compatibility with Windows 8+
87%
The device is fully compatible with Windows 8 and above, with seamless driver support. Users have reported no issues when installing or using it on modern systems, and setup is generally hassle-free for those with compatible OS versions.
Some users with older Windows 7 or non-optimized configurations have encountered difficulties in getting the card to work. Although support for older versions is mentioned, it doesn’t always run smoothly, and extra steps may be necessary to get everything working correctly.
Software/Driver Support
75%
25%
Once installed, the software and drivers function well, providing an easy-to-use interface for adjusting sound settings. Many users appreciate the customizable options, including the ability to tweak equalizer settings and adjust surround sound features.
Some users report that the software occasionally fails to recognize the card after updates, requiring a reinstall. There have also been complaints about the driver installation process being more complicated than expected for non-technical users.
Value for Money
92%
This gaming sound card is highly regarded for offering excellent value for money. Users believe that the performance, audio quality, and features far exceed its price point, especially when compared to other cards in the same price range. The integration of advanced features like surround sound and a built-in amplifier is seen as a huge bonus.
Some users feel that the card is a bit overkill for casual users who don't require the high-end performance. Additionally, a few buyers mentioned that similar audio improvements could be achieved with lower-cost options, making the price seem less justified for some.
Customer Support
79%
21%
Customer support is generally responsive, with users reporting helpful and friendly assistance when troubleshooting issues. The support team provides clear guidance for setup and resolving common installation problems.
However, some users have complained about delayed response times and unhelpful solutions for more complex issues. A few also expressed frustration with the limited support options for specific compatibility problems or hardware setups.
Size & Weight
82%
18%
The card's size is generally considered appropriate for most gaming setups. At 1.1 lbs, it is heavy enough to feel substantial but not too bulky. The dimensions make it a good fit for a wide range of PC cases.
Some users found the card to be larger than expected, making it a tight fit in smaller cases. This can lead to difficulty with cable management or even obstruction of airflow in compact builds, which some buyers found inconvenient.
Durability & Long-Term Value
85%
The card is designed to last, with many users reporting that it continues to perform well even after long-term use. The solid construction ensures that it holds up over time without issues like signal degradation or mechanical failure.
However, a few users expressed concerns that long-term usage might cause the card to become susceptible to overheating, especially in high-performance environments. Some also noted that while it’s durable, it’s not the most future-proof option available.

Suitable for:

The Asus Strix SOAR 7.1 PCIe Gaming Sound Card is best suited for gamers and PC enthusiasts who demand immersive, high-quality audio. Those who play action-packed games or enjoy cinematic media will benefit from the clear, detailed 7.1 surround sound it offers. This sound card is also ideal for users with modern PCs or laptops running Windows 8 and above, especially those looking to upgrade from onboard audio solutions. The built-in headphone amplifier makes it a great choice for audiophiles or anyone using high-impedance headphones for gaming or media consumption. Its low-latency performance is another standout for gamers who require real-time audio responses during competitive play.

Not suitable for:

This device may not be the best choice for users with older PCs or laptops, particularly those running operating systems below Windows 8. Installation can be tricky for users with older systems, and there may be compatibility issues or additional setup steps required. Additionally, casual users or those with lower-end headphones may not fully appreciate the advanced features like the surround sound or headphone amplifier, making it an overkill for basic audio needs. Users with compact PC cases might also face space constraints due to the card’s size, limiting its suitability for small form-factor builds.

Specifications

  • Audio Output Mode: Supports 7.1 surround sound for an immersive audio experience.
  • Hardware Interface: Uses a PCIe x4 interface for direct connection to the motherboard.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with PCs and laptops running Windows 8 and above.
  • Amplifier: Features a built-in headphone amplifier for powerful audio output.
  • Dolby Digital Support: Supports Dolby Digital for high-quality audio effects in gaming and media.
  • DTS Support: Includes DTS support to enhance audio clarity and spatial effects.
  • Low Latency: Optimized for low-latency performance, ideal for gaming and media use.
  • Platform: Designed for use with both PC and laptop platforms.
  • Dimensions: Measures 5.12 x 7.48 x 0.87 inches in size.
  • Weight: Weighs 1.1 lbs for easy integration into your setup.
  • Audio Quality: Delivers clear and detailed sound with minimal distortion at high volumes.
  • Software Support: Comes with software for audio customization and advanced configuration.
  • Gaming Optimization: Specifically optimized to provide low-latency sound for competitive gaming.
  • Headphone Compatibility: Works well with high-impedance headphones, delivering a strong audio experience.
  • Surround Sound Technology: Utilizes 7.1 virtual surround sound technology for enhanced immersion.
  • First Available: First released on September 28, 2015.
  • Installation: Installation may be challenging on older PCs due to system compatibility issues.

FAQ

The Asus Strix SOAR 7.1 PCIe Gaming Sound Card is designed to deliver immersive 7.1 surround sound with high-quality audio. It is particularly beneficial for gamers and media enthusiasts looking to improve their audio setup with features like Dolby Digital and DTS support, along with a built-in headphone amplifier for powerful audio output.

Yes, this sound card is compatible with PCs and laptops running Windows 8 and above. It connects via PCIe x4, making it a good option for both desktop users and those looking to upgrade their laptop's audio capabilities.

Installation is fairly straightforward for modern systems. You simply need to insert the card into a PCIe x4 slot on your motherboard, and then install the appropriate drivers and software from the included disc or the Asus website. However, some users have found it tricky to install on older PCs with outdated hardware or software.

Yes, the built-in headphone amplifier makes this sound card ideal for users who prefer high-impedance headphones. It boosts audio quality and ensures a better listening experience, with clear sound and minimal distortion, even at high volumes.

7.1 virtual surround sound creates a three-dimensional audio experience by simulating sound from all directions, making it especially immersive in gaming. This technology allows you to hear distant footsteps, gunshots, or other sounds in a more realistic way, improving situational awareness during gameplay.

Yes, it supports both Dolby Digital and DTS audio formats, which enhance the overall sound quality. These technologies are commonly used in movies, games, and music to deliver richer, more detailed sound, especially in surround sound setups.

The low-latency performance of this sound card is crucial for competitive gaming, as it minimizes the delay between audio input and output. This ensures that sound effects, such as gunshots or environmental sounds, are synchronized with your actions in real-time, providing a more responsive and immersive gaming experience.

Some users have reported installation difficulties, particularly with older PCs or those running outdated versions of Windows. It's recommended to ensure your system is up-to-date before installation and to follow the provided setup instructions carefully to avoid common pitfalls.

Users report clear, detailed sound with minimal distortion, even at higher volumes. The combination of 7.1 surround sound, Dolby Digital, and DTS support ensures a high-quality listening experience, making it an excellent choice for both gaming and media consumption.

While the installation process is relatively easy for most users, some may find the software and settings interface a bit complex. If you're new to advanced audio setups, you may need some time to explore and adjust the settings for optimal sound quality.