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Comparison Creative Sound Blaster X4 vs Creative Sound Blaster X3

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Creative Sound Blaster X4
Creative Sound Blaster X3
Creative Sound Blaster X4Creative Sound Blaster X3
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Support for Super X-Fi technology.
Support for Super X-Fi technology.
Featuresgaminggaming
Specs
Typeexternalexternal
InterfaceUSBUSB
Channels7.17.1
Mac compatibility
DAC
DAC resolution24 bit32 bit
Max. sampling rate192 kHz192 kHz
Dynamic Range114 dB115 dB
ADC
ADC resolution24 bit24 bit
Max. sampling rate192 kHz192 kHz
Dynamic range104 dB104 dB
More features
headphones amplifier
headphones amplifier
Inputs
mini-Jack (3.5 mm)33
Outputs
mini-Jack (3.5 mm)44
Optical S/P-DIF11
Added to E-Catalogdecember 2021september 2019

DAC resolution

The bit depth of the digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) of the sound card. In this case, DAC refers to a part of the circuit that converts digital sound data (machine code) into analogue pulses that are fed directly to an external device — speakers, headphones, etc. The bit depth is one of the main parameters (along with the sampling frequency) that describes the quality of the DAC: the higher it is, the more reliable the sound will be reproduced, the less distortion will be introduced into it during conversion.

16-bit DACs usually have entry-level sound cards — this is enough for good sound quality. In other cases, 24-bit converters are most common, and even for advanced models, in particular gaming ones (see "View"), they are almost mandatory.

Dynamic Range

The dynamic range of a DAC is the ratio between the loudest sound that the converter can produce and the quietest. The wider the dynamic range — the richer the sound will be, the lower the likelihood that quiet sounds that complement the overall picture will be muffled during conversion. At the same time, it is worth noting that almost all modern sound cards provide a dynamic range that is quite sufficient for comfortable everyday use, and in many models this parameter may not be indicated at all. It is worth paying attention to it when choosing an advanced specialized audio card — for example, a gaming one (see "View"). The minimum for professional models is 90 dB, but in fact, among similar solutions, this figure is usually 120 dB or more.
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