Creative launches USB Sound Blaster

Suped up sound for your laptop

13 May 2008 11:48 GMT / By Amy-Mae Elliott

In Singapore, Creative has announced the launch of the Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi Surround 5.1, the first such USB 2.0 audio solution from the company.

Claiming to provide users with the easiest upgrade from your bog standard built-in audio to the Xtreme Fidelity (X-Fi) audio experience for their PC and notebook, the USB hook up will be a big sell to those without an ExpressCard slot.

Creative says users can simply connect the device to their PC or notebook via the USB port and let the X-Fi technology provide them with full cinematic surround sound for DVD, enjoy Creative's EAX ADVANCED HD effects for gaming or make MP3s sound better than CDs.

The tech wizardry involved encompasses X-Fi CMSS-3D technology that expands the sound, X-Fi 24-bit Crystalizer that "revitalises" downloaded music and movies by restoring the details and vibrance that music and movies lost during compression.

The Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi Surround 5.1 will be available in Singapore at the end of May for the equivalent of around £38. Creative's UK PR were not sure when it would be coming to the UK, but did not rule a launch out.