Asus Xonar AE Sound Card

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86%
91%
Audio Performance
94%
Value for Money
87%
Ease of Installation
78%
Software Experience
89%
Surround Sound Quality
85%
Build Quality
88%
Noise Isolation
93%
Compatibility with Windows 10
90%
Gaming Experience
75%
Customer Support
80%
Long-Term Durability
85%
Overall Satisfaction
More

Overview

The Asus Xonar AE Sound Card is a high-performance PCIe sound card designed for users who demand rich, immersive audio. This compact model provides 7.1-channel surround sound and is perfect for desktop PC setups. With a 110dB SNR, it delivers clear and detailed audio with minimal distortion. The card is designed to be compatible with Windows 10, offering an easy upgrade to your audio system. Whether you're gaming, editing, or enjoying high-quality audio, this sound card aims to elevate your listening experience.

Features & Benefits

This sound card offers 192kHz/24-bit Hi-Res audio, ensuring that every sound, from high treble to deep bass, is reproduced with precision. Equipped with a high-quality ESS DAC, the audio clarity is exceptional, providing an immersive experience for all types of media. The included Sonic Studio software gives users full control over audio settings, while the EMI back plate effectively reduces interference, ensuring clean sound. With Perfect Voice technology, background noise is minimized, making this card ideal for clear communication during gaming or voice calls.

Best For

The Asus Xonar AE Sound Card is ideal for gamers who seek rich, immersive sound with detailed positional audio. It is also perfect for users on a budget who want high-quality audio without the high price tag. With its PCIe interface, it works seamlessly with desktop PCs, offering superior sound for media playback and gaming. Additionally, this model suits those who need to eliminate background noise for clearer communication, such as streamers or video conference users.

User Feedback

Users generally appreciate the clarity and immersion this sound card provides, especially when gaming. Many have noted the easy installation process on desktop systems, making it a quick upgrade for most setups. However, a few users report occasional software configuration issues, particularly with Sonic Studio. Despite this, the card consistently receives praise for its affordable price and performance, making it a solid choice for anyone seeking a reliable sound card without breaking the bank.

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Pros

  • This sound card provides clear, immersive 7.1 surround sound, enhancing gaming and media experiences.
  • Installation is straightforward, with many users noting easy setup on desktop systems.
  • Offers high-resolution 192kHz/24-bit audio, delivering rich, detailed sound.
  • The ESS Sabre-class DAC ensures exceptional audio clarity for a variety of uses.
  • Perfect Voice technology helps eliminate background noise during communication, ideal for gamers and streamers.
  • Affordable option for users seeking a high-fidelity sound card without a hefty price tag.

Cons

  • Some users report occasional software configuration issues that can affect performance.
  • The compact design may not offer the same level of durability as larger, premium sound cards.
  • May not satisfy audiophiles or those seeking the absolute best audio fidelity in all conditions.
  • A few users mentioned that the EMI shielding could be more effective in reducing interference in noisy environments.
  • Software, while powerful, can be overwhelming for beginners or those not familiar with advanced audio settings.
  • Limited compatibility with older operating systems, as it is designed specifically for Windows 10.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from a variety of sources worldwide, including different languages and platforms, the Asus Xonar AE Sound Card received solid feedback for its performance and value. Spam, bot-generated, and incentivized reviews were filtered out to ensure only authentic, high-quality feedback was considered. Both strengths and pain points are reflected in the scores, offering a well-rounded look at this audio solution's performance.

Audio Performance
91%
Many users love the clear, detailed sound delivered by this device, especially its ability to produce immersive audio for gaming and media playback. The 110dB SNR and 7.1 surround sound make it an ideal choice for those who want a rich, high-fidelity listening experience.
However, some buyers feel that while the sound quality is good, it doesn’t quite match up to more expensive, high-end sound cards. A few users have noted occasional distortion at high volumes or with certain audio setups.
Value for Money
94%
The affordability of this sound card for the features it offers is a big plus for many users. With high-resolution audio, 7.1 surround sound, and noise reduction technology, it delivers excellent value for users on a budget.
Some users feel that while the price is reasonable, the overall build quality could be improved for a more premium feel. Also, a few feel that the software doesn't always deliver the expected performance for this price range.
Ease of Installation
87%
Several users mentioned how simple and straightforward the installation process is. With compatibility for most desktop setups and Windows 10, the setup is quick for both novice and experienced users.
On the other hand, some reviewers experienced difficulties during installation, especially with driver compatibility or initial software configuration. A few users also found the setup process to be a bit tedious, especially for those new to audio equipment.
Software Experience
78%
22%
The included Sonic Studio software offers solid control over the sound card's settings, allowing users to tweak the audio to their liking. Many appreciated the customizable settings and the ability to fine-tune the audio.
However, not everyone has had a smooth experience with the software. Some users report frequent crashes or glitches with the app, especially after updates. A few also found the interface unintuitive and difficult to navigate at times.
Surround Sound Quality
89%
This sound card excels in delivering immersive surround sound that enhances gaming and media experiences. The 7.1-channel support is widely praised for its depth and realism, allowing users to fully experience sound in games, movies, and music.
While the surround sound quality is generally well-received, some users report that the performance could be better with certain headphones or speakers. A few also mentioned that the effect can feel less pronounced if the settings are not perfectly configured.
Build Quality
85%
The compact and durable design is a standout feature. Many users appreciate how easy it fits into desktop systems without taking up too much space while still providing solid performance.
However, some buyers felt the build quality could be sturdier, especially the mounting brackets. A few mentioned that the plastic construction feels a bit cheap, which detracts from its overall premium appeal.
Noise Isolation
88%
The EMI back plate and Perfect Voice technology work well to reduce background noise, creating a clearer, more focused audio experience. This is especially beneficial for users who engage in communication-heavy activities like voice chats or streaming.
Despite these noise reduction features, a small group of users noticed some background hum or interference under specific conditions. For others, the noise isolation wasn't as effective as expected when using more complex audio setups.
Compatibility with Windows 10
93%
This sound card is fully compatible with Windows 10, making it a reliable choice for most modern desktop systems. Users appreciate how easily it integrates into their setups without compatibility issues or driver problems.
While compatibility with Windows 10 is generally praised, some users experienced issues with driver installation or updates. A few reported that the sound card occasionally failed to function properly after system upgrades.
Gaming Experience
90%
For gamers, this sound card offers an exceptional experience. The clear audio, enhanced surround sound, and noise isolation all contribute to a more immersive gaming environment, making it a favorite for those seeking a competitive edge in their gameplay.
On the downside, a few gamers mentioned that while the sound is great, it doesn't fully replace higher-end audio solutions. Some also noticed that the software did not always optimize gaming audio as seamlessly as expected.
Customer Support
75%
25%
When users did contact customer support, they often reported that representatives were polite and knowledgeable. In some cases, support provided clear solutions to technical issues, which was appreciated.
However, several users expressed frustration with long response times and delays in resolving issues. A few also felt that support could have been more proactive in offering troubleshooting assistance for common setup problems.
Long-Term Durability
80%
20%
The overall durability of this sound card has been praised by many users, with most reporting it holds up well over time. The robust construction ensures that it remains functional after extended use, making it a reliable option for long-term audio setups.
However, a small number of users noticed issues after prolonged use, such as minor malfunctions with specific ports or connectors. For some, the sound card stopped performing optimally after several months of use.
Overall Satisfaction
85%
The majority of users are satisfied with their purchase, especially considering the overall value for money. Its performance, features, and price point make it a great choice for those looking for a well-rounded audio solution for their desktop setups.
On the flip side, some users felt the device fell short in certain areas, like software stability and build quality. While generally happy, a few mentioned that they would have preferred a more premium feel and more refined software performance.

Suitable for:

The Asus Xonar AE Sound Card is ideal for gamers and users who seek a budget-friendly yet high-quality audio solution. Its clear, immersive sound and 7.1-channel surround audio make it a solid choice for enhancing gaming experiences, movies, and music. Gamers who want crisp, detailed sound without breaking the bank will find this sound card especially appealing. It’s also a great pick for desktop PC setups, especially for those looking to add powerful audio performance without investing in high-end, expensive equipment. Additionally, it serves well for users on a budget who want decent noise isolation and software control over their audio settings.

Not suitable for:

However, this sound card may not be suitable for users looking for the highest tier of audio fidelity or premium build quality. Audiophiles or professionals who require top-tier sound quality and durability may find it lacking compared to more expensive models. Some users have noted occasional software glitches or performance issues, which could be frustrating for those expecting flawless functionality. Additionally, while it excels in gaming and general media playback, it may not offer the level of performance that enthusiasts demand in more complex audio setups. If you’re seeking a more polished, premium experience, this device might not meet your expectations.

Specifications

  • Audio Processor: Equipped with the C-Media 6632AE audio processor for high-quality sound processing.
  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): Delivers a 110 dB SNR for the front-out and 108 dB SNR for the headphone-out, ensuring clear and precise audio.
  • Interface: Uses a PCI Express interface for reliable and fast data transfer between the sound card and your desktop PC.
  • Audio Output: Supports 7.1-channel surround sound, offering immersive audio for gaming and media playback.
  • Frequency Response: Has a frequency response range of 20Hz to 20kHz, covering the full range of audible sounds.
  • DAC: Features an ESS Sabre-class DAC for high-fidelity audio conversion, delivering clear and detailed sound.
  • Software: Includes Sonic Studio software for full audio control, allowing users to adjust sound profiles and settings.
  • Perfect Voice Technology: Utilizes Perfect Voice technology to eliminate background noise during voice communication.
  • EMI Back Plate: Includes an EMI back plate to shield the sound card from electromagnetic interference, reducing noise and distortion.
  • Compatibility: Fully compatible with Windows 10 for seamless installation and operation.
  • Form Factor: Compact form factor, designed to fit easily into desktop PC setups without taking up excessive space.
  • Dimensions: Measures 2.52 x 0.71 x 6.69 inches, ensuring a compact and space-efficient installation.
  • Weight: Weighs only 2.5 ounces, making it lightweight and easy to handle during installation.
  • Connectivity: Connects to your desktop PC via PCIe, providing a stable and high-speed connection for audio tasks.
  • Supported Audio Formats: Supports high-resolution 192kHz/24-bit audio, providing detailed and accurate sound for all types of media.
  • Power Supply: Powered directly from the PCIe slot, eliminating the need for an external power supply.
  • Noise Reduction: EMI back plate and Perfect Voice technology work together to reduce noise and ensure clean audio output.

FAQ

The Asus Xonar AE Sound Card is a high-resolution PCIe audio interface designed for desktops. It offers 7.1-channel surround sound and supports high-quality audio playback, making it ideal for gaming, media consumption, and general audio enhancement. It connects to your PC via PCIe and works with Windows 10 to provide clear and immersive audio.

Installation is straightforward. Simply insert the sound card into an available PCIe slot on your desktop PC. After securing it in place, install the necessary drivers from the included disc or download them from the Asus website. Once installed, you can use the Sonic Studio software to fine-tune settings and customize your audio experience.

The Asus Xonar AE Sound Card provides 7.1 surround sound output, allowing you to connect multiple speakers to enjoy an immersive audio experience. This feature is particularly beneficial for gaming, where precise directional audio enhances situational awareness, and for home theater systems seeking rich, multi-channel sound.

Yes, this sound card is compatible with desktop PCs that have an available PCIe slot and are running Windows 10. It works seamlessly with most setups, though it may not be compatible with older operating systems or devices lacking a PCIe slot.

The EMI back plate included with the Asus Xonar AE Sound Card is designed to shield the card from electromagnetic interference (EMI). This helps reduce noise from other internal PC components, ensuring clearer, more accurate audio output and preventing any disruptions that could affect the listening experience.

Perfect Voice technology is a feature that helps eliminate background noise during voice communication, improving clarity for gaming or calls. It focuses on filtering out unwanted sounds such as keyboard typing or fan noise, making it ideal for streamers or gamers who need crisp, clear communication with teammates.

This sound card delivers 192kHz/24-bit Hi-Res audio, ensuring high-fidelity, detailed sound for all types of media. Whether you're gaming, watching movies, or listening to music, you can expect clear, rich audio with excellent clarity and minimal distortion.

Yes, Sonic Studio provides a user-friendly interface for full audio control, allowing you to adjust settings for different audio outputs and create customized sound profiles. While it’s intuitive for most users, beginners might find it a bit overwhelming due to its advanced features.

Some users report occasional software configuration issues, especially with the Sonic Studio software. In rare cases, there might be compatibility or driver installation problems. However, these can typically be resolved with updates or troubleshooting via the support page.

If you're looking for a high-quality sound card for a budget-friendly price, this is a great option. It's perfect for gamers and users who want clear, immersive audio without spending a lot. However, it may not be the best choice for audiophiles seeking the absolute highest sound quality, and it requires a desktop PC with a PCIe slot.