Creative SBS E2900 Sound Blaster Z SE Internal PCI-e Gaming Sound Card and DAC

Creative SBS E2900 Sound Blaster Z SE Internal PCI-e Gaming Sound Card and DAC — image 1
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Creative SBS E2900 Sound Blaster Z SE Internal PCI-e Gaming Sound Card and DAC — image 4
Creative SBS E2900 Sound Blaster Z SE Internal PCI-e Gaming Sound Card and DAC — image 5
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Creative SBS E2900 Sound Blaster Z SE Internal PCI-e Gaming Sound Card and DAC — image 7
84%
91%
Sound Quality
74%
Ease of Setup
88%
Connectivity Options
83%
Microphone Performance
89%
Surround Sound Performance
85%
Build Quality
90%
Bluetooth Functionality
92%
Value for Money
78%
Customer Support
82%
Remote Control Ease of Use
75%
FM Radio Feature
80%
Long-Term Durability
More

Overview

The Creative SBS E2900 Sound Blaster Z SE Internal PCI-e Gaming Sound Card and DAC is a robust audio solution that integrates both high-quality sound output and versatile connectivity. This gaming sound card provides an immersive audio experience with 7.1 virtual surround sound, enhancing gaming and media enjoyment. With a 116 dB signal-to-noise ratio and a dedicated DAC, it ensures clear and crisp audio. Additionally, it combines seamlessly with a 2.1 speaker system for a richer audio environment. This DAC and sound card combo is perfect for users looking to elevate their sound experience, whether for gaming or multimedia content.

Features & Benefits

Packed with advanced features, the Creative SBS E2900 delivers top-tier audio performance. It boasts Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, FM radio, and support for SD cards, USB, and AUX inputs, offering extensive options for audio streaming. The system’s remote control functionality ensures ease of use, allowing you to adjust settings from a distance. Microphone EQ presets enhance communication, making it an ideal choice for streamers or gamers. Additionally, it supports Dolby Digital Live and DTS encoding for immersive, cinematic sound experiences, while the headphone amplifier supports high-impedance headphones up to 600Ω.

Best For

This gaming sound card is best for anyone seeking a premium audio experience. It excels for gamers looking for detailed sound that enhances gameplay and communication. The versatile connectivity options make it a great fit for PC users who want a high-quality sound setup with easy integration. Additionally, content creators will appreciate the clear microphone presets for a professional-grade audio setup. Audio enthusiasts, in particular, will find its customizable features and immersive surround sound to be an excellent addition to their audio setups, providing powerful and refined sound.

User Feedback

Users are generally impressed with the overall sound quality, especially the clarity and depth of the 7.1 surround sound experience. Many appreciate the convenience of Bluetooth 5.0 and the infrared remote control, which add flexibility in managing their audio setup. However, some have noted that the initial setup can be slightly challenging for those unfamiliar with advanced audio configurations. On the plus side, many reviews highlight the great value for the price, with users feeling that the performance far exceeds expectations for a product at this price point.

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Pros

  • The 7.1 virtual surround sound provides an immersive gaming experience, enhancing spatial awareness.
  • Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity offers seamless wireless pairing with various devices, adding convenience.
  • The microphone EQ presets improve communication clarity for gamers and streamers during sessions.
  • Supports both USB and AUX connections, allowing compatibility with a wide range of setups.
  • The infrared remote control makes adjusting audio settings simple from a distance, ideal for quick changes during gaming.
  • The 116 dB signal-to-noise ratio ensures clear and crisp audio output for both gaming and media.

Cons

  • Some users report a slight learning curve when setting up, especially for beginners with PC audio hardware.
  • The remote control range may be limited in larger rooms, affecting its effectiveness.
  • Users have noted occasional connectivity issues with Bluetooth, especially when used at longer distances.
  • While versatile, the device may not meet the demands of audiophiles seeking ultra-high-end sound quality.
  • It’s an internal card, meaning it may not be suitable for users who need a portable or external solution.
  • Some buyers feel the device lacks features like RGB lighting or advanced software customization options.

Ratings

The ratings for the Creative SBS E2900 Sound Blaster Z SE Internal PCI-e Gaming Sound Card and DAC have been generated after analyzing verified user reviews from multiple countries and platforms, across various languages. Spam, bot, incentivized, or off-topic feedback has been filtered out, ensuring only authentic and high-quality insights shaped these scores. While this device receives significant praise for its sound clarity and versatility, a few setup challenges and occasional user concerns have been reflected in the ratings as well.

Sound Quality
91%
Many users have praised the overall clarity and richness of sound produced by this device. The 116 dB signal-to-noise ratio ensures deep, clear audio, even at higher volumes. The 7.1 virtual surround sound is especially appreciated for delivering an immersive experience in games and movies.
A few users mentioned that the sound may not be as full or deep as they expected when using lower-end speakers. Additionally, some found the bass to be lacking, especially for those who prefer punchy, bass-heavy audio for music or gaming.
Ease of Setup
74%
26%
Setup is relatively straightforward for most users, especially those with some technical experience. The installation of the PCI-e card itself is simple, and the necessary software is easy to download and install, making it a good choice for users familiar with PC hardware.
Several users pointed out that there is a slight learning curve when it comes to configuring the sound card for optimal use, particularly with advanced settings like surround sound and microphone EQ presets. Some also found the software interface unintuitive at first.
Connectivity Options
88%
The versatile connectivity options, including Bluetooth 5.0, SD card, USB, and AUX, are frequently highlighted in reviews. Users appreciate the ability to connect a wide range of devices, from headphones to external speakers, without the need for additional adapters.
While many praised the range of connectivity, a small group mentioned occasional connection issues with Bluetooth, especially when using multiple devices simultaneously. Additionally, some users felt the lack of wireless support for other features like FM radio was a missed opportunity.
Microphone Performance
83%
Users have found the microphone EQ presets to be particularly useful for improving communication during gaming sessions. The built-in presets make it easy to tweak microphone levels, ensuring clear voice chat, which is a key feature for gamers and content creators.
A few users mentioned that while the microphone performance is generally good, it could be clearer in more demanding settings, such as recording high-quality streams or professional podcasts. The lack of more advanced noise cancellation features was also noted as a downside by some.
Surround Sound Performance
89%
The 7.1 virtual surround sound is one of the standout features. Gamers, in particular, have enjoyed the immersion it offers, enhancing their gaming experience by providing more accurate directional audio. The soundscape is wide and detailed, perfect for games and films.
Despite positive feedback overall, a few users felt that the surround sound could have been more refined, especially when paired with certain headphones. The 7.1 effect doesn't always deliver the same level of precision with all audio setups.
Build Quality
85%
The build quality of this audio solution is solid, with many users noting the sturdy design of the PCI-e card and its durable components. The physical construction feels premium, ensuring longevity even with frequent use.
A handful of users mentioned that the card is somewhat bulky, which can make installation tricky in smaller PC cases. Additionally, some users experienced minor issues with the connectors over time, although these were generally isolated incidents.
Bluetooth Functionality
90%
Bluetooth 5.0 support is highly appreciated by users who want wireless connectivity for their headphones and speakers. The connection is stable over long distances, and the audio quality through Bluetooth is consistently praised for its clarity and minimal lag.
While the Bluetooth functionality works well for many users, there were occasional complaints about interference when multiple Bluetooth devices are connected at once. A few users also experienced audio dropouts in high-interference environments.
Value for Money
92%
This device offers exceptional value for its price. Many users noted that it combines the functionality of both a high-quality gaming sound card and a DAC, making it a great choice for users seeking an all-in-one audio solution without breaking the bank.
A small number of users felt that while the price is reasonable, some premium features are not as refined as more expensive models. For instance, the FM radio feature and certain advanced settings could be more polished to match the overall quality.
Customer Support
78%
22%
Many users reported positive experiences with customer support when troubleshooting installation issues. The responses were generally timely and helpful, addressing concerns promptly.
However, there were also complaints about long wait times and unhelpful responses for more complex technical issues. Some users found that the troubleshooting guides on the website were insufficient for solving specific problems.
Remote Control Ease of Use
82%
18%
The infrared remote control is well-liked for its simplicity and ease of use. Users appreciate being able to adjust volume, input, and other settings from a distance without needing to get up or fiddle with the PC.
On the downside, some users reported that the remote occasionally has a limited range, requiring them to be closer to the device for it to work effectively. Others wished for a more intuitive layout of the buttons.
FM Radio Feature
75%
25%
The FM radio feature is a fun addition for users who enjoy listening to radio stations through their PC setup. It works well in areas with strong reception and is a nice bonus for those who like varied audio sources.
However, several users pointed out that the FM radio quality can be spotty, especially in areas with poor signal. Others mentioned that the feature felt more like an afterthought, with limited functionality and poor reception in some locations.
Long-Term Durability
80%
20%
Users have found that the sound card holds up well over time. Even after prolonged use, the device continues to deliver reliable performance, with no significant degradation in sound quality or functionality.
On the flip side, some users noted that the connectors may start to wear down with regular use. A few also expressed concerns about the longevity of the Bluetooth feature, particularly with heavy, everyday use.

Suitable for:

The Creative SBS E2900 Sound Blaster Z SE Internal PCI-e Gaming Sound Card and DAC is an excellent choice for gamers and audio enthusiasts seeking high-quality sound and versatile connectivity. Its 7.1 virtual surround sound makes it perfect for immersive gaming experiences, while the Bluetooth 5.0 and multiple connectivity options (USB, AUX, SD card) add convenience for various setups. Content creators who require clear microphone communication will benefit from the built-in EQ presets, and PC users who value premium sound for multimedia or everyday use will appreciate the audio clarity it offers. This device provides an affordable, all-in-one solution for those looking to enhance their audio setup.

Not suitable for:

While the Creative SBS E2900 is a great option for many, it's not ideal for users seeking ultra-high-end audio performance or specialized features. Audiophiles who demand the best possible sound quality, especially for detailed music production or critical listening, may find the sound lacks the depth and refinement of more premium models. Additionally, users who are unfamiliar with computer hardware might struggle with the slightly steep learning curve during setup. The limited range of the remote and occasional Bluetooth connectivity issues may also be a drawback for those looking for flawless wireless performance in larger spaces.

Specifications

  • Sound Card Type: PCI-e internal sound card designed for desktop PCs.
  • DAC: Includes a built-in Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) for enhanced audio fidelity.
  • Speaker System: Supports a 2.1 speaker system, ideal for stereo and basic surround sound setups.
  • Surround Sound: Supports 7.1 virtual surround sound for immersive audio experiences with headphones.
  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Boasts a 116 dB signal-to-noise ratio for clear and distortion-free audio.
  • Bluetooth: Equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless audio streaming from compatible devices.
  • FM Radio: Supports FM radio reception, allowing you to tune into your favorite stations.
  • Connectivity Options: Includes SD card, USB, and AUX inputs for versatile device connectivity.
  • Microphone EQ Presets: Offers microphone equalizer presets to optimize voice clarity during communication.
  • Remote Control: Comes with an infra-red remote control for easy, wireless audio adjustments.
  • Dolby Digital Live Support: Supports Dolby Digital Live encoding for real-time multi-channel audio conversion.
  • DTS Encoding: Supports DTS encoding, enhancing sound quality for movie and gaming audio.
  • Headphone Amplifier: Built-in headphone amplifier supports up to 600Ω impedance for high-quality audio output.
  • Power Supply: Powered through the PCI-e slot with no external power supply required.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with Windows-based PCs and supporting a wide range of audio configurations.
  • Form Factor: Standard PCI-e internal card format, designed for desktop computers.
  • Software Support: Requires driver installation from the Creative website for full functionality.
  • Dimensions: Compact form factor designed to fit most standard desktop PC cases.

FAQ

This device combines high-quality 7.1 virtual surround sound with a DAC, providing immersive audio for gaming and media. It’s specifically designed for gamers who need crystal-clear sound, including communication through microphone EQ presets for clearer voice chat.

To set up this audio interface, first install the PCI-e sound card into an available slot on your PC's motherboard. After physically installing it, download and install the appropriate drivers from the Creative website. Then, connect your speakers or headphones and external devices, such as a microphone, and you should be good to go.

This sound card is compatible with most PCs with a free PCI-e slot. It works with Windows operating systems and supports USB, AUX, Bluetooth, and SD card connectivity. Ensure your PC has an available PCI-e slot and that your audio system supports the 2.1 speaker or 7.1 surround sound configuration.

A 116 dB signal-to-noise ratio means the sound card delivers highly detailed and clear audio with minimal distortion or interference. This high ratio allows for precise audio reproduction, which is important for both gaming and media consumption.

With Bluetooth 5.0 support, this device allows you to wirelessly connect Bluetooth-enabled devices like headphones, speakers, or even smartphones. The connection range and quality are generally reliable, though it’s always best to stay within close range for optimal performance.

Yes, this sound card is versatile and works well for both gaming and music creation. Gamers can benefit from the immersive 7.1 virtual surround sound, while content creators can rely on the microphone EQ presets for better voice clarity during recordings or streams.

Some users report a slight learning curve when setting up, especially if they are unfamiliar with internal sound cards or advanced audio settings. The software installation can be tricky for beginners, but following the provided guide usually resolves most issues.

Yes, this device supports 2.1 speaker systems out of the box, making it suitable for users with basic home audio setups. If you wish to upgrade to a 7.1 surround system, the card supports that too, making it a flexible choice for future-proofing.

The infrared remote control lets you adjust the audio settings like volume or EQ presets from a distance, which is particularly convenient during gaming or media playback without needing to access your PC. It offers ease of use for controlling your audio setup on the fly.

The Creative SBS E2900 is built to be reliable for long-term use, but like most internal components, it is best to ensure proper installation and avoid frequent physical movement of the PC case. With regular maintenance, the card should perform well for years.