Creative Sound Blaster X4 Hi-Res DAC and USB Sound Card

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87%
94%
Audio Quality
89%
Surround Sound Performance
88%
Ease of Use
76%
Compatibility with Platforms
90%
Mic Control and Noise Cancellation
85%
Setup Process
92%
Value for Money
82%
Headphone Amplification
80%
Software and App Control
87%
Design and Build Quality
91%
Latency and Performance in Gaming
85%
Long-Term Reliability
More

Overview

The Creative Sound Blaster X4 Hi-Res DAC and USB Sound Card offers an impressive upgrade for any audio setup. This DAC delivers high-quality 24-bit/192kHz audio for a true immersive experience, supporting both discrete 7.1 surround sound for speakers and virtual 7.1 for headphones. Powered by USB-C, it easily connects to PCs, Macs, and gaming consoles, making it versatile for various uses. Additionally, the device includes enhanced communication tools such as automatic mic muting and two-way noise cancellation, improving clarity during calls or gaming sessions.

Features & Benefits

This DAC excels in providing crystal-clear sound, with 24-bit/192kHz audio quality that makes it ideal for audiophiles and gamers alike. The SmartComms Kit enhances communication with auto mic mute and noise reduction, ensuring a smoother experience during calls or streams. Additionally, Super X-Fi technology tailors the sound specifically for your headphones, creating a personalized audio profile. Onboard buttons allow for quick EQ adjustments and mic control, giving users flexibility without needing to dive into settings each time.

Best For

The Creative Sound Blaster X4 is perfect for gamers seeking precision and those who want to enhance their gaming and multimedia experience. Streamers and content creators will appreciate the clear communication features, especially during live broadcasts or team chats. Audiophiles will enjoy the high-fidelity audio for music and media playback, while those looking for a versatile solution for both gaming and media will find the X4 to be a solid choice. Its ability to support various audio setups makes it a great all-in-one solution.

User Feedback

The Creative Sound Blaster X4 has earned praise for its overall audio clarity and immersive surround sound experience, particularly among gamers. Users appreciate its easy setup process and how quickly it integrates with different devices. However, there have been some reports of compatibility issues on certain platforms, especially with older systems. Many also enjoy the mic controls and the noise cancellation features, though a few users wish the software offered more customization options.

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Pros

  • The 24-bit/192kHz audio quality offers clear, immersive sound for gaming and media.
  • 7.1 surround sound support enhances the overall audio experience for both headphones and speakers.
  • The SmartComms Kit with auto mic mute and noise cancellation improves communication during streaming or calls.
  • USB-C power and compatibility with PC, Mac, and gaming consoles make this device versatile for various setups.
  • Onboard EQ and mic controls provide quick and easy adjustments without needing to open software.
  • Super X-Fi technology personalizes headphone audio, creating a more immersive listening experience.

Cons

  • Some users experience compatibility issues with specific platforms, particularly older devices.
  • The device's size may not be ideal for users seeking a more portable or compact option.
  • Occasionally, the microphone noise cancellation feature may not fully eliminate all background noise.
  • While the setup process is generally simple, advanced users may find the app interface a bit limited.
  • The device can be overkill for casual listeners who don't need the high-resolution or surround sound features.
  • It may not perform well with lower-end headphones or audio gear, limiting its value for budget setups.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple platforms and languages, the Creative Sound Blaster X4 Hi-Res DAC and USB Sound Card has garnered a mix of praise and a few critiques. Spam, bot, and incentivized reviews were filtered out to ensure the scores reflect only genuine, high-quality feedback. The results highlight the device’s strong audio performance and versatility while noting some minor platform compatibility issues that some users encountered. Both strengths and pain points are considered in these aggregated insights.

Audio Quality
94%
Users consistently praise the 24-bit/192kHz audio quality for delivering crystal-clear sound, making it a standout for both music and gaming. Many mention the depth and clarity that truly enhance their listening experience, whether for casual music or immersive gaming setups.
A few users have reported that while the sound quality is excellent, it can be overkill for casual listeners, with some suggesting that the high resolution might not be necessary for less demanding use cases. Additionally, some find the volume levels slightly inconsistent across different platforms.
Surround Sound Performance
89%
The 7.1 surround sound feature is highly appreciated for creating a more immersive experience during both gaming and movie watching. Users have noted that the discrete and virtual surround modes offer great positioning and clarity, making it a solid choice for competitive players and media enthusiasts alike.
Some buyers feel the surround sound effect isn't as pronounced on certain headphones, particularly cheaper models. A few users also experienced slight lag or distortion when switching between virtual and discrete modes, which can be frustrating during gaming sessions.
Ease of Use
88%
Many users find the device very easy to set up, with a simple plug-and-play experience. The user-friendly interface and intuitive controls make adjusting settings and switching between modes quick and hassle-free, which is perfect for both novice and experienced users.
A few users have mentioned that while the setup process is simple, the manual could be clearer. Some experienced users also felt the lack of advanced customization options through the software limited their ability to fine-tune settings beyond the basics.
Compatibility with Platforms
76%
24%
This sound card works across various platforms, including PC, Mac, and gaming consoles, which makes it versatile for users with different setups. The device automatically adjusts to the platform’s requirements, ensuring smooth performance without needing additional software installation.
However, some users reported compatibility issues with specific gaming consoles or certain operating system updates. In rare cases, users found the device didn’t recognize on startup, requiring a restart or manual reconnection for proper functionality.
Mic Control and Noise Cancellation
90%
The SmartComms Kit and onboard mic controls received widespread praise for improving call clarity and eliminating background noise. Users highlight that the auto mic mute and noise cancellation features help create a clear, distraction-free communication experience, especially important for gamers and streamers.
Despite its advantages, some users felt that the noise cancellation could be more effective in extremely noisy environments. Additionally, there are occasional reports of the microphone not picking up sound as clearly after long hours of use, especially for users with sensitive audio equipment.
Setup Process
85%
The setup is quick and intuitive, with many users reporting that the device is ready to use right out of the box. The USB-C powered connection simplifies the process, and compatibility with a range of operating systems and consoles adds convenience for diverse users.
On the downside, some users found the initial software installation required for advanced features to be a bit more complicated than expected. A few also mentioned that it took a little extra time to configure the EQ settings to their liking after the initial setup.
Value for Money
92%
Many buyers consider this sound card to be a great value for the price, especially given the premium audio quality and advanced features it offers. Users appreciate the versatility, from gaming to music playback, and the robust feature set for a relatively affordable price.
However, some feel the price could be a bit steep compared to simpler models with fewer features. For users who don’t need the full range of functionalities like surround sound or Super X-Fi, the investment might seem excessive for their needs.
Headphone Amplification
82%
18%
Users with high-impedance headphones appreciate the device's ability to drive them effectively, providing clear, rich audio without distortion. The support for up to 600Ω headphones makes this a great choice for audiophiles and users with more specialized audio gear.
Some users have pointed out that while the headphone amplification is good, it doesn’t quite match the performance of standalone amplifiers for audiophiles. A few also mentioned that certain lower-end headphones didn’t sound as impressive when paired with the device.
Software and App Control
80%
20%
The accompanying Creative app gives users easy access to EQ settings and mic controls, making it convenient to fine-tune their sound. Many find the software interface to be intuitive and helpful in quickly adjusting audio preferences for different activities.
However, some users have reported that the app can occasionally be buggy or slow to respond, especially after firmware updates. A few felt that the app’s features could be expanded further to offer more granular control over certain aspects of the audio output.
Design and Build Quality
87%
The design is sleek and compact, making it easy to integrate into a desktop or gaming setup without taking up much space. Many users appreciate the sturdy build, which feels durable and high-quality, adding to the overall premium experience.
However, some users feel the device could have been slightly smaller or lighter for easier portability. A few also mentioned that the buttons feel a bit stiff, which can make it a challenge to quickly adjust settings during high-intensity gaming or streaming sessions.
Latency and Performance in Gaming
91%
Gamers have praised the low latency performance, especially during fast-paced gaming, where sound accuracy is critical. The device enhances competitive gameplay by providing precise audio cues, which is essential for success in competitive titles.
On the other hand, some users experienced minor audio lag during multiplayer sessions, though this seems to depend on the system configuration. A few also reported the need for occasional adjustments to balance the sound during high-action sequences.
Long-Term Reliability
85%
Most users have found the sound card to be reliable over time, with no significant performance degradation. The quality of the DAC and the consistent sound output make it a trustworthy device for long-term use in both gaming and media setups.
However, a small number of users noted that the device can sometimes encounter occasional connectivity issues after prolonged use, particularly when switching between devices or ports. These problems seem to be relatively rare but still impact overall reliability for some users.

Suitable for:

The Creative Sound Blaster X4 Hi-Res DAC and USB Sound Card is an excellent choice for gamers, streamers, and audiophiles who prioritize high-quality audio performance. Users seeking immersive 7.1 surround sound for gaming or media playback will appreciate its precision and clarity, especially when paired with high-end headphones. Streamers and content creators will benefit from the SmartComms Kit's noise-cancelling features, which enhance communication during live streams. Additionally, those with a range of devices (PC, Mac, or consoles) will enjoy its seamless compatibility, making it versatile for multiple setups. The device’s straightforward setup and easy-to-use interface further make it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced users.

Not suitable for:

While the Creative Sound Blaster X4 offers premium features, it may not be the best fit for users who do not require such advanced capabilities. Casual listeners who do not need 7.1 surround sound or personalized audio adjustments might find the price and complexity excessive. Those with lower-end headphones or who don’t plan to use the device for gaming or media creation may not fully benefit from its high-resolution audio quality. Additionally, some users have reported occasional compatibility issues with specific platforms, which could be a concern for those looking for hassle-free plug-and-play experiences. The device may also be too large and feature-heavy for users seeking a simpler, more portable option.

Specifications

  • Audio Quality: Supports 24-bit/192kHz audio for high-definition sound reproduction.
  • Surround Sound: Offers both 7.1 discrete and virtual surround sound for immersive audio experiences.
  • Power Source: Powered via USB-C for efficient power delivery and easy connectivity.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with PC, Mac, and gaming consoles for versatile usage.
  • SmartComms Kit: Includes auto mic mute and noise cancellation for clearer voice communication.
  • Super X-Fi: Personalizes headphone audio using Super X-Fi technology for a customized sound profile.
  • EQ Modes: Programmable EQ settings tailored for music, movies, and gaming for enhanced audio.
  • Mic Controls: Onboard mic controls allow for quick adjustments, including mute and noise reduction.
  • Headphone Amplifier: Supports high-impedance headphones up to 600Ω for rich, distortion-free sound.
  • Ports: Includes optical-in, optical-out, USB-C, line-in, line-out, and mic-in for versatile audio connections.
  • App Control: Creative software app provides quick access to EQ and mic adjustments.
  • Form Factor: Compact design, suitable for both desktop and mobile setups.
  • Dimensions: Measures approximately 4.72 x 3.15 x 1.02 inches for easy portability and storage.
  • Weight: Weighs approximately 0.5 lbs (227g), making it lightweight and portable.
  • Latency: Low-latency performance ensures minimal delay for gaming and live streaming.
  • Headphone Jack: Equipped with a 3.5mm headphone jack to support a wide range of audio devices.
  • Noise Reduction: Built-in noise reduction enhances mic clarity and minimizes background sounds during calls.
  • USB-C Cable: Comes with a USB-C cable for reliable and fast connection to devices.
  • Software Updates: Supports regular software and firmware updates through the Creative app for continued performance improvements.

FAQ

The Creative Sound Blaster X4 is a high-resolution DAC and USB sound card designed to enhance your audio experience with 24-bit/192kHz audio quality, surround sound support, and clear communication features. It’s powered by USB-C and works with PCs, Macs, and gaming consoles.

Setting up this device is straightforward. Simply plug the USB-C cable into your computer or console, connect your headphones or speakers, and install the necessary drivers or software (available on the Creative website or via the app). The device will automatically be recognized by your system.

Yes, the Creative Sound Blaster X4 is fully compatible with both PC and Mac systems, making it a versatile option for users across different platforms. It supports plug-and-play functionality for ease of use.

Absolutely! This device is ideal for gamers, offering precise, clear audio with 7.1 surround sound support. It also features low-latency performance, helping you hear footsteps and other in-game sounds more accurately, giving you a competitive edge.

Yes, this sound card is compatible with gaming consoles such as PlayStation and Xbox, as well as PCs and Macs. Simply connect via USB-C and enjoy enhanced audio and communication capabilities during gaming sessions.

The SmartComms Kit is a set of tools designed to enhance voice clarity and reduce background noise during calls or streaming. It includes features like auto mic mute and noise cancellation, ensuring clearer communication in noisy environments.

Super X-Fi technology personalizes your headphone audio by simulating the experience of listening through high-end speakers. It analyzes your ear shape and head size to deliver a customized, immersive sound profile for a more lifelike listening experience.

Yes, you can use the Creative app to adjust settings like EQ modes and mic controls. The software is user-friendly and allows for quick customization of audio profiles to suit music, movies, or gaming needs.

Some users have reported minor compatibility issues with specific platforms or older systems, particularly with certain versions of Windows or macOS. Be sure to check the system requirements and install the latest drivers to ensure smooth performance.

The Creative Sound Blaster X4 supports headphones with impedance up to 600Ω, meaning you can use a wide range of high-quality headphones, from casual models to professional-grade ones, without sacrificing audio performance.