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Creative Sound Blaster X4 External USB DAC Amp with Super X-Fi, 7.1 Surround, Optical I/O, Mic/Headset/Line-in - For PC and Mac
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Return this item for free
Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. You can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition: no shipping charges
Learn more about free returns.- Go to your orders and start the return
- Select the return method
- Ship it!
Purchase options and add-ons
Brand | Creative |
Connectivity Technology | USB |
Item Weight | 620 Grams |
Operating System | windows 10 |
Audio Input | USB |
About this item
- 7.1 DISCRETE SURROUND WITH SUPER X-FI AND DOLBY DIGITAL LIVE - Supports up to 7.1 discrete for multi-channel speakers and virtual for headphones
- IMPROVED COMMUNICATION WITH SMARTCOMMS KIT AND CRYSTALVOICE - Features our SmartComms Kit, a suite of smart communication features that simplify the way you take work calls on Windows 10 platform. Turn on VoiceDetect to auto mute and unmute your mic, or get rid of static background noise in your own environment as well as the other parties' via our two-way noise cancellation feature NoiseClean. In tandem, CrystalVoice technology enhances voice for clear recordings and in-game communications
- CONNECT WITH EVERYTHING - With a newly added optical-in port, it is now much easier to connect multiple audio devices, from external microphones and headsets, to platforms like your PC, Mac, gaming consoles, and even your multi-channel speaker systems. Just power up the Sound Blaster X4 via the USB-C port, and enjoy high-quality audio with everything. The Sound Blaster X4 is also a headphone amplifier that is capable of driving studio-grade headphones of up to 600Ω
- EASY ACCESS TO ALL CONTROLS - Pick between three EQ modes or re-program them, and save your settings on the device. There are also the Direct Mic Mute, Direct Mode, Super X-Fi and SXFI BATTLE Mode on/off buttons, as well as a speaker (Line-out) and headphones switch button. After a one-time setup, instantly adjust the volume levels between two audio sources (SPDIF / Optical / USB) with the Audio Balance feature via the volume knob, perfect for communicating with music on
- GAME AND HEAR YOUR WAY – Choose between SXFI BATTLE Mode or Scout and get to winning your FPS game. Configure each element of your audio settings or switch them off completely via the Creative app. Access the full range of audio adjustments via the PC app, or make quick adjustments to your EQ settings from your phone. All these are powered by our Sound Blaster’s audio promise with 114 dB audio clarity and hi-res 192 kHz/24-bit playback
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This Item Creative Sound Blaster X4 External USB DAC Amp with Super X-Fi, 7.1 Surround, Optical I/O, Mic/Headset/Line-in - For PC and Mac | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | |
Try again! Added to Cart Add to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart Add to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart Add to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart Add to Cart | |
Price | $129.99$129.99 | $119.99$119.99 | -20% $199.99$199.99 List: $249.99 | $139.99$139.99 |
Delivery | Get it as soon as Monday, Apr 1 | Get it as soon as Monday, Apr 1 | Get it as soon as Monday, Apr 1 | Get it as soon as Monday, Apr 1 |
Customer Ratings | ||||
Volume control | 4.3 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.4 |
Sound quality | 4.1 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 |
For gaming | 4.0 | 4.3 | — | — |
Quality of material | — | — | 4.8 | 4.8 |
Easy to use | — | — | 4.6 | 4.6 |
Sold By | Creative Labs, Inc. | Creative Labs, Inc. | Amazon.com | Amazon.com |
hardware interface | usb | pci express x4 | — | — |
connectivity tech | USB | 1 x 1/8″ Line In/mini TOSLINK In Combo Jack, 1 x 1/8″ Line Out/mini TOSLINK Out Combo Jack, 1 x 1/8″ Headphone / Headset Jack, 1 x 1/8″ Ext. Mic-in Jack, 1 x micro USB port for PC/Mac | Type-C, USB 2.0 | Type-C, USB 2.0 |
style | — | 130 dB DNR at 32-bit / 384 kHz | 4th Gen | 4th Gen |
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Product information
Product Dimensions | 19.69 x 19.69 x 11.02 inches |
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Item Weight | 1.37 pounds |
Manufacturer | Creative Labs |
ASIN | B0953LL5R6 |
Country of Origin | China |
Item model number | SB1815 |
Customer Reviews |
4.3 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #20 in External Sound Cards |
Date First Available | May 17, 2021 |
Warranty & Support
Feedback
Product guides and documents
Videos
Videos for this product
8:15
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Creative Sound Blaster X3 USB DAC Headphone Amp Review
Geekanoids
Videos for this product
2:19
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Unboxing the SoundBlaster X3 USB Audio Production Device
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Product Description
Sound Blaster X4—1 Device. 3 Surround Sound Technologies. 7 I/O Connectors.
Hi-res 7.1 External USB DAC and Amp Sound Card with Super X-Fi and SmartComms Kit
Your all-in-one audio upgrade starts here with Sound Blaster X4. In a quick overview fashion, let’s take a look at what the Sound Blaster X4 has to offer:
Multi-channel
- Up to 7.1 discrete for multi-channel speakers, Up to 7.1 virtual for headphones
Surround and Gaming
- [SURROUND] Super X-Fi Headphone Holography, Sound Blaster’s renowned Surround Virtualization, Dolby Digital Live; [GAMING] SXFI BATTLE Mode, Scout Mode
I/O connectors
- Line-out and Line-in, Optical-out and Optical-in, USB-C for power and audio, Mic-in, Headset-in
Communication
- SmartComms Kit with auto mute and two-way noise cancellation features, CrystalVoice for clear recordings and in-game communications
Controls
- Volume control knob, Direct mic mute button, 3 EQ modes and Direct mode, Super X-Fi and SXFI BATTLE Mode on / off, Speakers (Line-out) and headphones switch, Audio Balance feature
Software (Creative app)
- Full audio customization on Windows PC or Intel-based Mac system via USB, Quick EQ and audio tweaks on Android and iOS via Bluetooth
Audio Quality and Headphone Amplifier
- 114 dB, 24-bit / 192 kHz, supports headphone impedance of 32–600Ω
MULTI-CHANNEL SURROUND
#TeamSpeakers or #TeamHeadphones? Why not both? The Sound Blaster X4 supports up to 7.1 discrete and virtual audio channels, so you won’t have to compromise on the way you enjoy your audio. It is also capable of incredible sound performance—acoustics depth and detail—giving a new lease of life to your headphones and speakers.
Also, it offers not just one, but three different surround sound delivery options. Feel free to discover the unique characteristics of each surround option, try them out on different types of media content, and maybe—relive that favorite piece of yours in a whole new light.
Sound Blaster’s Surround Virtualization and Dolby Digital Live Encoding
We’ve been in this space for a long time—more than 30 years to boot. With our renowned Surround Virtualization technology, expect top-tier surround processing made possible through our highly optimized algorithms.
To put it simply, these algorithms intelligently identify and enhance the spatial information of the incoming audio, and optimize it for the chosen output format, drawing you to where the action is for a complete and immersive auditory experience.
For Windows users, the Sound Blaster X4 also features Dolby Digital Live for convenient encoding of any audio sources to multi-channel surround sound in real-time, all while transmitting data using only a single optical cable solution for decoding in a home theater system.
Super X-Fi Headphone Holography
More than just surround technology, Super X-Fi is our award-winning audio technology that captures the listening experience of a high-end multi-speaker system in a professional studio to recreates the same expansive experience in headphones. Without missing out on audio cues and immersive ambient effects, you’ll be able to hear the details effortlessly from your headphones—especially spoken dialogs in shows—with natural and lifelike soundstage that’s deeply immersive and highly realistic, akin to the movie theaters.
Once set up, simply toggle Super X-Fi on and off using the SXFI button located on the device itself.
Setting Up Super X-Fi Profile
Setting up your Super X-Fi profile is simpler than it looks! Follow these steps to create your profile and upload it onto your Sound Blaster X4:
1. Download the SXFI App on your mobile device and register for a Super X-Fi account, and create your Super X-Fi profile via the SXFI App. Select ‘Personalize' via the menu tab, and follow the guided Head and Ear-Mapping process.
2. Turn on Bluetooth on your mobile device, then, launch the SXFI App once more, and head to the ‘Manage My Devices’ tab. Select the discovered Sound Blaster X4 from the ‘Available Wireless SXFI Devices’ list. The LED ring of Volume Knob on the Sound Blaster X4 will blink in white.
3. Press and hold the Volume Knob to establish the connection. Once connected, your Super X-Fi profile will begin its upload onto the Sound Blaster X4 automatically.
And you are done. You can toggle the Super X-Fi effects on and off directly on the Sound Blaster X4, or control the feature from the Creative app.
Multi-channel Surround
Sound Blaster’s Surround Virtualization and DDL
Super X-Fi Headphone Holography
Setting up Super X-Fi profile
Gaming—Glory and Conquest
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Hear where they areRaise your KDR even further in FPS games with an unfair advantage over your opponents! The Sound Blaster X4 is equipped with both SXFI BATTLE Mode and Scout Mode, so you can choose* the best weapon for your victory. *SXFI BATTLE Mode and Scout Mode utilize different processing technologies and cannot be used simultaneously. |
SXFI BATTLE ModeSXFI BATTLE Mode is the first and only sound mode that allows you to hear realistic audio cues that not only highlights the direction of bullets, but distance as well--so you can accurately pinpoint your enemies’ location to the millimeter. |
Scout ModeScout Mode focuses on detection through enhanced audio cues, highlighting each and every in-game detail that could make or break the game. Whether it’s the sound of your enemies’ gun reload or the slightest sound of someone throwing a molotov, Scout Mode is sure to bring the cues right to your ears. |
At Your Convenience
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CommunicateSimplify how you communicate online with our SmartComms Kit, a suite of smart communication features designed for Windows 10 (ver 1703 and later) users. VoiceDetect automatically unmutes your mic when you start speaking, and mutes you when you stop. NoiseClean removes unwanted background noise from both ends of the conversation, and works best with static noises like vacuum cleaner, lawn mowers, and desktop fan. |
ControlPick between three EQ modes for movies, music, and footsteps enhancer, or customize them further and save those settings to your device. Easily access the Direct Mic Mute and Super X-Fi on / off buttons, as well as a speaker (Line-out) and headphones switch directly on the device. You can also adjust the volume levels between two audio sources (SPDIF and Optical) instantly with the Audio Balance feature via the volume knob. |
CustomizeTake full command of your audio setup and customize them to your preference! Configure every element of your audio settings or switch them off completely on the Creative app on your Windows PC. For tweaks to only the necessary sound settings and on your gaming consoles, do it quickly via your iOS or Android mobile devices via the same-named Creative app. |
7 I/0 Connectors
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Mic-in and Headset-inLocated on the front of the Sound Blaster X4, simply plug in your preferred choice—external microphone or headset / headphones with mic—and get started right away. The Sound Blaster X4 is also a headphone amplifier that's capable of driving studio-grade headphones of up to 600Ω with ease. |
USB-C and Optical-outThe USB-C port makes it easy for you to power up the device right on your desktop. When connected to PC and Mac, the same USB-C connection is used for both power and high-quality digital audio. Using the optical-out port, connect the Sound Blaster X4 to your AV receiver and your prized surround sound system for an enhanced listening experience! |
Optical-in and Line-inChat in-game with your teammates on PS4 via the optical-in port, or connect it to your PS5 via a HDMI to optical converter (not included) for enhanced audio playback. It is also compatible with your Blu-ray players, set-top boxes, and even TV. It also doubles up as a line-in port and works with your mobile devices or audio players for high-quality audio without fuss. |
Line-outBreathe new life into your surround speaker system! The line-out ports consisting of Front, Side, Rear, and Center / Sub ports allow you to connect your 2.1, 5.1, and even 7.1 speakers for outstanding audio clarity. Coupled with 7.1 discrete and virtual support, refresh your same old speakers with a new sound identity. |
Features Compatibility
Notes
*SmartComms Kit is available for PC only. Scout Mode, CrystalVoice, and Sound Blaster Acoustic Engine features are available on the Creative app for Windows PC and Intel-based Mac system.
Sound Blaster X4 | Sound Blaster X3 | |
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Add to Cart
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Add to Cart
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Customer Reviews |
4.3 out of 5 stars
850
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4.2 out of 5 stars
657
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Discrete / Virtual 7.1 and 5.1 | ✓ | ✓ |
Super X-Fi | ✓ | ✓ |
SXFI BATTLE Mode | ✓ | x |
Sound Blaster’s Surround Virtualization and Dolby Digital Live Encoding | ✓ | ✓ |
SmartComms Kit via Creative app | ✓ | x |
I/O Connectors | Optical-in and Optical-out, Line-in and Line-out, USB-C, Mic-in, Headset-out | Optical-out, Line-in and Line-out, USB-C, Mic-in, Headset-out |
Programmable EQ Modes: Music, Movies, Footsteps Enhancer | ✓ | ✓ |
Software / BLE Mobile App | Creative app | Sound Blaster Command |
Audio Quality | 114 dB, 24-bit / 192 kHz | 115 dB, 32-bit / 192 kHz |
Accessories | Sound Blaster X4, USB-C to USB-A cable (2m / 6.56 ft), Optical cable (1m / 3.28 ft) | Sound Blaster X3, USB-C to USB-A cable (2m / 6.56 ft) |
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Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers have mixed opinions about the audio midi interface. Some praises its ease of installation and quality.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers are mixed about the sound quality of the audio midi interface. Some mention that the sound is amazing, with the best sound delivery alteration implementation. They also say the DAC added a bit of volume and bass, and the eq adjustments were nice. However, others say that the audio just seems to kinda cut off, and in headphones they hear white noise if nothing is playing.
"...Here's my pros/cons:+ Likely the best sound delivery alteration implementation I've experienced yet..." Read more
"...The footprint is small and I like the portability. Very crisp sound for music and high res (like Tidal or Amazon lossless) but I cannot speak for..." Read more
"...Sound quality is a noticeable step up from motherboard audio, even vs good motherboard based audio..." Read more
"...a low speed USB cable... maybe that's why the sound is so awful... NO HD sound... this is nothing but a waste of money.UPDATE:..." Read more
Customers are mixed about the quality of the audio midi interface. For example some mention it works well, sounds good, and delivers fantastic sound, while others say that the software is glitchy and has design flaws. Some say that it either won't run at all or crashes at startup and then quits. That said, opinions are mixed.
"...+ All *hardware* aspects feel extremely premium- Does take some tweaking/getting used to-..." Read more
"...plenty for my Audio Technica M20X headphones for music and the line in works well. The footprint is small and I like the portability...." Read more
"...a fairly good USB DAC/soundcard combo that didn't cost too much, was well made, and still supported older games sound features properly this thing..." Read more
"...worst than the mac's 3.5mm built in jack output. Creative Software either wont run at all or crashes at startup and then quit...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the ease of installation of the audio midi interface. Some mention that it's easy plug and play, while others say that the instructions are minimal and the software installation went fine.
"...to make specific adjustments and use all the features but this is very easy to use in my experience...." Read more
"...I have no idea why they made it all so complicated and difficult to use!..." Read more
"...It was so easy to install, just like everything is with a MAC and Creative. All I can say is this is a purchase well worth it...." Read more
"...Easy to install, except it requires a driver install and a separate app only available from the microsoft app store to unlock all the controls...." Read more
Reviews with images
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Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
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You do need to download their control center app in order to make specific adjustments and use all the features but this is very easy to use in my experience. Basically it’s like having an audigy platinum to go and to me is worth the value especially for the sound you get if you use a laptop especially on the go. Great upgrade from onboard sound.
Recommended!
Reviewed in the United States on May 28, 2022
This seems to break that trend! Sort've. Yeah its going to cost more than those Chinese DAC's but vs anything from a reputable company its actually not priced badly while fairly well made. Sound quality is a noticeable step up from motherboard audio, even vs good motherboard based audio (I have a Aorus X670E Master that has a decent built in audio set up), right off the bat.
Driver stability was always a huge issue for SB stuff (years ago, WinXP era I think, Microsoft actually tracked back most of their BSOD's to sound card drivers!!) and that seems to no longer be a issue now. I've had 0 crashes and all my old games now have their EAX capabilities working properly again and sound quite good!
Where they fumble the ball is with their new SuperFi software features. Its supposed to be able to simulate HRTF when working properly. And who knows maybe it does! But I don't know if it does since I didn't bother with their irritating set up, log in, and EULA nonsense associated with it. I have no idea why they made it all so complicated and difficult to use!
I've been building PC's and troubleshooting them for years so if I'm having trouble making their process work then you know others are having the same issues.
The "scout mode" will work without signing up for anything but isn't worth using IMO (distorts lots of background sound to make footsteps louder) and feels cheaty so I don't use it.
One issue I did have with this DAC is that I had to switch around several USB ports to get it to work. I don't know why this is a issue exactly but supposedly some ports on the mobo just won't deliver enough power to make the DAC work and you have to randomly plug the unit in to them until you find one that works. Once it does get working you're fine though and I haven't had to mess with it since the initial set up.
I have a pretty modern mobo (Aorus Master X670E) with lots of higher power USB A and C ports so if my mobo had this issue I'm sure its a fairly common one.
Anyways if you're looking for a fairly good USB DAC/soundcard combo that didn't cost too much, was well made, and still supported older games sound features properly this thing is pretty good.
Top reviews from other countries
Reviewed in the Netherlands on July 14, 2023