Today we are taking a look at the X-Fi Prelude 7.1 from Auzentech. It is a soundcard based on, as the name tells, X-Fi that comes from Creative.

This is the first time that a third-party company is allowed to use Creative’s X-Fi components on their own soundcard. So, while Creative is the manufacturer of the X-Fi, Auzentech is the manufacturer of this card.

[img2]x-fi[/img2]

X-Fi in itself offers some nice features compared to older cards such as the Creative Live! products.

Key Components

• Creative X-Fi CA20K audio processor
• One AKM AK-5394 super high performance 96kHz 24-bit ADC for analog input
• Four AKM AK-4396 96kHz 24-bit advanced multi-bit DAC for analog output
• 64Mbytes of memory for audio processing
• High fidelity audio OPAMPs for analog input and output (TI OPA2134)
• Front L/R output OPAMP is replaceable by end-user (National LM4562NA)
• Dual mode S/PDIF receiver and transmitter

Audio Performance (Rated Output @ 5Vrms, Typical Value)

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio (20kHz Low-pass filter, A-Weighted)
• Stereo Output : 120dB (part spec)
• Front and Rear Channels : 120dB (part spec)
• Center : 120dB (part spec)
• Subwoofer and Side Channels : 120dB (part spec)
• Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise at 1kHz (-3dBFS, A-weighted) : 0.001% - part spec
• Frequency Response (+/-0.01dB, 24-bit/44.1kHz input ) : 20 kHz (part spec)
• Frequency Response (+/-0.01dB, 24-bit/96kHz input ) : 43.5 kHz (part spec)
• 16-bit to 24-bit recording sampling rates: 32, 44.1, 48 and 96kHz

Auzentech also added support to replace the high performance OPAMP for front left/right audio channels. That makes it possible for users to change this already well working OPAMP to an even higher performer, for those real audiophiles ;)

The Auzentech X-Fi Prelude 7.1 comes in a colourful and well designed box. Inside the package, except the soundcard you’ll find an optical cable, CD with drivers and a quick setup guide for your product.

Also found in the package is two converters that can be used in the SPDIF output port. This port can be used both as a coaxial output, but also as an optical one. This port has a bandwidth of 25mbps and supports DTS-HS and DolbyTrue HD.




As you may have noticed this soundcard does not give you an gaming port, you know the one where you plugged in your old Sidewinder joysticks or gaming wheels? Well, that is because this soundcard is focused on the high-quality market.

If you really need the gaming port, consider a XtremeMusic card instead or upgrading your gaming hardware ;)




On next page we’ll take a look on the drivers and software.