Hey, I ordered my laptop with the SoundBlaster software. I figured for $20 it would either be helpful or I would lose $20 for something pointless. So, I just bought it without doing any research on it.
What is it and what does it do? Do you think it's worth the $20?
Edit:
It seems like there are lots of little decisions to make on this M14X: (edit: I'm not on the fence about any of these, just saying lots of people are)
1.5 GB vs 3GB
2630QM vs 2720QM
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1.5 GB graphics card. There's no decision to make there. 3 GB is pretty pointless.
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I have similar X-Fi software on my desktop, came with mobo.
It is fine, tuned all sound fx including logging into windows and shuting down pc nicer to hear, it is just a equalizer.
But I would rather spend the money on a carrying case or anti virus software. -
Most posters say it's junk. Apparently it takes 5% of your CPU power and is just a resource hog. I was going to get it until I read all the negative reviews about it.
We've already been through the 1.5GB vs 3GB debate many, many times and the conclusion is that the 3GB is a money wasting cash-grab that doesn't improve gaming performance in the least, so avoid it and use that money towards an SSD where it will actually help you instead -
I can't speak for Creative's integrated chips, but my dedicated X-Fi card is fantastic. Most people can't really tell the difference (apparently, it was a big surprise to me when I did a little test with a few friends), but if you have a good ear, and appreciate good sound, you'll like it.
It's got a fantastic EQ, it's also go a Crystalizer, which makes sound a lot more pronounced and crisp.
Where is really shines is surround sound though. If you're hooking it up to a surround sound system, you'll need to install the software suite, then go do CMSS-3D -> Upmix mode -> Stereo Surround, then go back, and pull the slider back to 50%, after configuring the volume levels properly. The difference is just ridiculous. -
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stevenxowens792 Notebook Virtuoso
AZIZHP - It depends which software is included with it. I reviewed the USB x-fi pro go in the m15x forums. I really liked it. Much better than the standard built in sound. If it includes the THX and Crystalizer you might change your mind on what it's worth. For the FULL ON fps experience you need IMO sim surround sound. Of course you can use the real 7.1 headphones as well but 20 bucks for software and a decent set of headphones sounds like a bargain compared to $150 7.1 surround headphones.
StevenX -
stevenxowens792 Notebook Virtuoso
I will add that the microphone process called "WHAT YOU HEAR" kicks my cpu percentage up to 5 percent on idle so... I disable it in the X-FI control panel and I am set. I still have mic, I just don't hear myself talk now which is fine with me.
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It's only 20$. What's the big deal? It will obviously make some sound difference.
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Not if you have these suckers!
7.1 Surround sound, Built in sound card and software
Wireless Gaming Headset G930 -
I will see if there is a buying option on the disc.
Software SoundBlaster?
Discussion in 'Alienware 14 and M14x' started by Killer Juice, Apr 25, 2011.