@badseed tech Between this,the g3 and g6. Which one you think is the better option for someone who games and cares more about mic than headphones as i have fnatic react.
Not super impressed by them so far. I ordered from glassy after one of your previous videos and the glasses they sent me have two different tints to the lenses and a bent nose piece. Sent them photos of the glasses and requested an exchange and they're not responding.
THANKS MAN, been waiting for this review since the release of the x3 now I can finally pull the trigger I'm loving your channel, keep up the great work man!
Thanks for the great video it gives me all the info I have been looking for about this product. have you considered doing a Sound blaster X3 vs Sound blaster X4
This has to be one of the most helpful and non bias review channels I've come across with second to none production, you deserve more followers! I know there's links in the descriptions but give us a insight to the brain/ears behind the beard! Please give us a video on your current music preferences, favorite artists and some tracks to really test our new hardware on! After all who doesn't enjoy discovering new music!
@9:38 the onscreen text shows the same power output on low gain and high gain, but he says out loud that high gain with a “105 Ω headphone” will see a 45mW output.
It would be great to have a video specifically aimed at surround sound in games and what one needs to get and configure to truly get that experience. There are growing number of games that include 7.1 surround sound natively but with all of these options, how do you get it? Does the DAC have to have sorround sound mode if the games has it built in? Is "virtual" surround some of these offer the same experience? How does the headphones play in?
The only thing I want is the best solution for super super sweaty competitive play. All I care about is Footsteps, reloads, and sound cue allowing me to locate anyone solely based in sound. I have the GSX 1,000 and a pair of DT 770 Pro's and this just doesn't cut it, do you think this product in the video would provide what I'm looking for combined with a pair of MASSDROP X SENNHEISER HD 58X JUBILEE HEADPHONES? But as far as your content and this video my God your production quality is top notch. Your reviews are basically the only ones I trust.
I have the HD58x Jubilee, I actually can pin point my enemies without any amp/dac I guess the Soundblaster in scout mode (footsteps mode) may offer better sound cues I just ordered one, i’ll let you know if i find any improvements (just remind me lol)
I'm currently using a Yamaha HTR-5740 as my DAC. My headphones are plugged into that and I love it. My modmic is supposed to be coming in today. That will mostly be used for teleconferencing , and it will be plugged into my PC tower directly.
Honestly, this review convinced me to get the Soundblaster and although it JUST came in for me, I couldn't be happier with it! Huge boost to my audio game and I can't wait to explore it's options and ranges as my needs evolve through gaming, casual music, and editing! For reference, I'm powering a pair of Logitech G Pro X's and it sounds great!
@@IdeasDzn I was actually using it for CoD myself so yes I had noticed minute differences, especially when it comes to hearing doors open or distant movement like shrubs moving etc. Honestly, just extremely surprised at how this thing elevated the G Pro X, the fact that I'm getting so much more out of it interms of sheer out put, quality and just even footsteps makes it a worthwhile purchase! Also, jut recently routed my Edifier speakers into them which is great, and although I still need to control master volume natively with the speaker, my whole setup is routed into this little machine and it's lifting it all up perfectly! As someone who isn't an audiophile, I see this as a definite eng-game machine for your audio needs as a general consumer
ThatMillGuy you have got me convinced! Will most likely be purchasing within the next few days to give it a go! Was really kind of let down with the audio quality of the G PRO X as I don’t use the blue microphone that was included and was going to purchase the Baerdynamic DT990 PRO. Didn’t want to mess with getting 2 pairs of headphones in a couple months so hopefully this is the golden ticket! Thank you for your advice man 🙏🏼💜
@@IdeasDzn I don't think you'll be dissapointed! Also, if you ever end up upgrading headphones, you'll know you have a DAC/AMP that will power it like a champ!
ThatMillGuy just got it in everything sounds great 👍 but on the super x-fi tab where you are supposed to select your headphones there is not Logitech g pro x or any Logitech headsets at all, I’m assuming you have it on unknown headphones!? Let me know ASAP and thanks once again ! 🙏🏼💜
I'm in the only perso who does not understand why on earth we want the mic/headphone plugs in the front? What I'm missing here? Do people love having cables on top of their desks. After hours of research, I'm getting a GSX 1000 because apparently, it is the ONLY option that has rear mic & headphones.
those gold rimmed Glassy's are actually SO clean looking on you! i wear the zooma models every day (prescription) and love em. SUPER stoked to see good content creators coming together with good companies
I got this a couple of weeks ago so here's my 2p. I currently have a Magni 3 so was looking to complete the stack. However I needed a mic input for gamin and the stack would not have solved that problem neatly. For reference I run Phillips SHP9500s and a vmoda boom pro mic for gaming and have X2HRs and 6XX for anything else. I find that there's more than enough power to give me the volume I need on all by that's of course subjective. The headphone input must be a 4 pole as I can use a single cable so keeps my setup nice and clean. As Brian alludes to the mic input is great and sounds fantastic. I personally just run direct for gaming and think that sounds great. I love that its bus powered so that keeps things clean on the desktop. Overall, it suits me for being able to drive the headphones mentioned whilst allowing me to keep cables to a minimum. If the Hel was a bit cheaper I would have got this but for just over £100 in the UK It was the best value option for what I needed.
I use this coupled with the Razer tiamat v2 in discreet surround sound using the rear pins. Works like a hack in FPS games. This product was never meant to be used with the front 3.5mm jacks. The sennheiser doesnt have discreet surround so yeah...
Nice video, can you maybe make a video on the Astro MixAmp with other headphones besides the Astro’s, because I can’t find the MixAmp’s power limit anywhere.
I use a pair of (don't hate me for this) Razer Kraken Forged Edition headphones. I've found that this dac/amp with the music preset makes this headphones MUCH clearer and better sounding. I primarily use it for listening to music but it excels in gaming as well. As for the surround sound, I prefer it to be off. Not that big a fan of it but your experience may vary. I should be clear that I am NOT an audiophile and cannot discern subtle differences in audio. But I can say for a fact that this thing makes a pair of old RAZER headphones of all things sound pretty damn good, in my opinion of course.
Hi, I know the sxfi button can be used to switch between speakers and headphones. When the PC boots up, and if your headphones stay permanently connected, does your last output (speaker) stay on or resets to headphones? Thanks in advance!
@@imraneo It stays on, I have something connected to the speaker output and the headphone output at all times. Though I should mention that I've experienced some bugs where it won't keep your output balance equal upon booting from a full shutdown on occasion. By that I mean the audio levels on the the left, right, center and so on of your audio equipment won't be at the same volume level. In particular, the left output ends up MUCH higher than the others but at least it's an easy fix. It doesn't happen all the time but I would still like for them to put out a bug fix for this issue soon.
I sent the Sound Blaster X3 back. I am looking for the right amplifier for my Sennheiser HD598se. I am undecided between FiiO K5 Pro, Schiit Fulla 3, Topping DX3 Pro and Schiit Hel. I don't know if Topping and Hel improve the sound quality compared to the fulla on the 598.
Bought this amp and the RÖDE AI-1, comparing those I will keep the AI-1, I use the Beyer Dynamics headset MMX300 and the dynamic and separation is much better on that one. No software needed to and mic monitoring functions flawlessly with an 3.5 mm mic adapter. Great review though!
Hey! I have some speakers I'll use along side the headphones but they work with just a single 3.5mm jack, will the rear ports still work with this and which jack should I plug them into? The other thing is how does switching between the output devices work. Many thanks, loving the channel
Outstanding review/video Brian! Your Beginners guide to sound came in real handy also. Getting your sound outside of case was excellent advice. My MB is real noisy. My old dac was just amplifying all that. The X3 is a great all in one unit for the money. My biggest beef with Creative is lack of support in the long run.
so the X3 is better then Sennheiser GSX 1000 I have the Sennheiser GSX 1200 PRO which is pretty much the same thing so is it worth switching or just keep what I have ?
I'm happy to hear your experience with the X3 was much better than mine. Mine had some really nasty distortion on top of all of the audio that was being output and added some pretty noticeable audio latency on top of that. Tried reinstalling the drivers and software to no avail and ended up sending it back the next day.
i already have one of these. it is great. I also have hd660s headphones, am i wasting my money if i upgrade to dac and amp stack ( schit / topping. ) or is it worth the upgrade. i can afford the upgrade. would the difference be noticaible. im gaming and listening to tunes not really interested in the surround feteaures on the sbx3. dolby atmos is perfect for the games i play.
I'm a complete newbie with DACs so please bare with me. Right now I'm using the very old Altec Lansing ACS48 2.1 computer speaker set and I want to continue using it as it's still working very well and I'm satisfied with the sound. The speakers' only input is through its attached cable with a 3.5mm plug. I'm therefore looking for a DAC that would be a good match in sound quality with my speakers and have a 3.5mm speakers output with also a volume control knob. It looks like the Sound Blaster X3 has what I need, but having to create an account is a turn off. Do any of you have any suggestions?
I wish this had headphone and mic jacks at the back of the unit as well, I don't really like having cables trailing across my desk, I'd rather have them plugged in at the back and then routed underneath the desk
Great vid as always, intro is banging... Curious if youre ever going to look at any IEMs on the channel? Ive been kinda getting into them lately as a fall down the audio rabbit hole. GGs man.
12:21 However, it requires a scan of your face......a login account.......and computer software dependent on windows. Make it Driverless and put all the features on the device with a basic LCD display and get rid of the face scan and the account login.
Hi, at 11.13 you talk about stacking it with an atom amplifier. For MOVIE watching only from an HTPC, how did you add the headphone amplifier to the X3? Did you use the headphone output to keep the Super X-Fi processing?
@@schylur I ended up returning the X3, buggiest piece of equipment I’ve ever used. I would go as far to say completely unusable. I can’t stress how much I dislike this product lol. But to answer your question, it runs the 990 no issues. Very very enjoyable for music when it decides to work. If you’re interested in what I swapped to, it was a ifi zen dac and the build quality, sound quality and bug free experience has been a blessing compared to the X3.
When using chatmix you still only have to have the single USB cable coming from your PC to the X3? Other than the X3 and GSX 1000, are there any other audio solutions with the chatmix feature worth knowing about? Great video overall, thanks for putting together such informative content.
Hi Brian, sorry for the late question but as of now, what do you recommend as the best 7.1 positional solution to PC gaming? Thanks and love the channel.
Thanks for the review. I bought this about a month ago, had to buy a new headset to go with it..(Game One) long story but part of me feels not happy because i don't bother with all the settings and wonder if i'd do better with a Schiit stack or at least a Fulla 3
This channel is a wealth of info. I always wanted to get into audio. Just bought the Razer Kraken Ultimate and I am horrified I paid for this and now on the market for new headset. Right now I am looking at SteelSeries Arctis Pro.
Should I buy this and use with Audio Technica M50 and/or HyperX Cloud Alpha headphones? Or should I better invest in more high-end headphones for better results?
I have the Super X-Fi gumstick DAC/Amp and I totally agree with your assessment about games. I love everything about the dac/amp, but I just cannot use it for games. I'm a top 500 overwatch player and I've played at ESL Cologne and I couldn't get use to the processing for games. Everything else, pretty good. Sometimes I found processing for music to be a little unnatural too though.
Hi! Can I plug it in an stereo speaker with p2 cabe (just like as you do to plu a headphone)? I mean if I plug in a JBL charge 4, with a P2 cabe connected to the soundblaster x3, does it works just like as in a headphone?
Which mic for gaming would you get for this? Is there a good 3,5mm mic to use with this soundcard? Or maybe a condenser mic with phantom power and XLR to jack cable?
i bought the x 3 for my ps 4. definitely a great deal for 120 dollars, easy to set up, phone app to control the device works great, sounds great. Does not have enough power. Barely drove hifi man sundara, moderately drove beyerdynamic custom studio, than tested Phillips fidelo x3 and brainwavz HM 5 and it got loud but still just under the volume level i like. Replaced the Creative x3 with the G6 and it drives all the headphones i have beautifully.
Hey B have you done a video on the GoXLR? Need to check. Would be curious about your thoughts on it. I'm planning to use it in my first 'true' setup I'm building. .. fantastic video man. Really liked this one as I'm interested /lookin.. anyway. Cheers
Good review. Could you help me with this question. I have a MSI X99A gaming motherboard which I bought back in the day as it is suppose to have a decent onboard sound. I use an AKG 240 (i think middle production) which is 600ohms and have a Modmic on the way thanks to your reviews (if it ever comes off pre-order from amazon!). Would getting the X3 give me a lot better sound? I only want this for gaming really with maybe a little bit of music. My AKG is a 3.5mm jack but i use a 6.35mm converter which my motherboard supports as I have noticed the sound is a lot louder from the 6.35mm input on the motherboard than the 3.5mm, which I thought was a bit odd I assumed they'd both be using the same driver. So basically, would this be a worth while investment? Thanking you in advance, Sam
If you need a microphone input and live in a part of the world that you can get the Creative X3 for 106$ and need 165$ for the Schiit Fulla 4 would you still go for the latter? I'm currently using a Drop X Sennheiser PC38X and willing to buy some time the HD58X and some entry level planars
9:40 so you said the X3 can do 45mW and 35mW on low and high gain. and then you said the modi-magni 3 schiit stack can do 2400mW...this means the schiit stack is more powerful and efficient and will be better at powering high impedance headphones? please can you do a test with 600 ohm headphones on these Amp+Dacs that you're reviewing. i wanna get the best one that will work for me forever no matter what headphones i get in the future. and not have to buy another amp again.
Should I sell off my gsx1000 for this/ the schiit Hel or should I just get the atom/Heresy amp? I only paid $109 for the gsx so my investment so far has been great. I just got the gsp500’s and am looking at getting the 2020 hifiman’s and the 58x/hd600’s in the near future?
cringe. I have always thought of B&O of focusing more on design than strictly on sound quality. A lot of their stuff looks really cool, but it certainly isn't the best bang for the buck, and sometimes is designed more towards aesthetics than sound quality. definitely some cool stuff to go look at in a store, but personally I wouldn't buy it as audiophile gear if you are focused on sound quality above all else. and sennheiser drops the ball almost across the board on this especially SXFI
Thank god you put that bit about it not being better than the G6 for sound quality at the end, I just bought a G6 and I was about to be mad lol... do you think the amp in the g6 is more powerful?
Wich one would u suggest between this x3 or the soundblaster g6? Is there any differences in terms of sound in gaming? Is the software better or not? (Sorry for bad english)
Just upgraded to a 3080 ti and it's so big it covers the pcie slot my Sound Blaster zX goes in. Time for an external sound card, this helped with my decision.
I use the steel series artics pro, beyerdynamic MMX 300, and massdropxsennheiser HD58x for gaming on my pc desktop. Any recommendations for a dac/amp for these headsets. would the SCHiit stack or soundblaster X3 be overkill for this or just fine?
ASUS Xonar DX vs Sound Blaster X3, which one will you pick? Currently I have Xonar DX with my Edifier 5.1 sound system, do you think X3 will perform any better than Xonar DX?
Can I use the optical port on the Dac to connect to a ps3 or ps4? Because the g6 did connect and worked so I was wondering if this unit would work as well?
I was thinking about getting this unit but I really don’t know if I should pull the trigger on it. It has a lot of options I know that I’ll enjoy but I don’t want to to sacrifice sound quality while listening to music. I don’t think there are other as well rounded options on the market though. I was thinking of pairing these with HD58x jubilees and or some pc37xs. I don’t what solution I’ll use for a microphone yet if I go for the jubilees though.
Been doing research for weeks trying to figure out the best gaming headset set up for PS4 and you definitely sold me on these! Now I just need to pick a good headset.
Great Review. It was my introduction to dipping my toe into the world of quality audio. Soundblaster X3 and now the JDS atom on the way with D770 80 ohms and also the Fedlio X2HR. Just a question when stacking it with the JDS Atom. Do you run the X3 in Hi or Low Gain mode? Also did you just plug it from 3.5mm headphone out into the 3.5mm input on the Atom? Cheer mate!
1. Doesn't really matter. See what works best. 2. You can also just get a RCA-to-3.5mm and plug the 3.5mm into the headphone out on the X3 into the RCA in on the Atom. But get some better headphones first maybe. A Sundara would be a proper upgrade.
One thing i need to know and i'd appreciate an answer, because i'm looking for something specific. Can this DAC output AT THE SAME TIME, audio from PC, into the device that is connected to Optical OUT, and my speakers (line out)
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@9:38 I am guessing that is a typo? Shows that both Low and High Gain are the same 45mW.
That’s what I was thinking 🤔
@badseed tech
Between this,the g3 and g6.
Which one you think is the better option for someone who games and cares more about mic than headphones as i have fnatic react.
You look so dapper in them! "Good day sirs, I am humbly yours, Brian P, and you have your set tuned into AwfulSeed Technology"
Not super impressed by them so far. I ordered from glassy after one of your previous videos and the glasses they sent me have two different tints to the lenses and a bent nose piece. Sent them photos of the glasses and requested an exchange and they're not responding.
I’ve decided I need “Ready? LETS GO!” As a phone alarm.
Yes, we need this.
Yes this the best idea I’ve ever heard.
Thanks for the idea lol I just made it for iPhone 😂 my lady is like “who is that every time someone texts you now?”
Second this!
A man of culture
We still want the part 2 to dac and amps
Me too
+1
"It's quite a bit larger than I imagined, a sentiment I get used to hearing"
ok BP, I see you
Your nose?
@@MaheshWalatara his tumour
why has no one mentioned that at around 2:27 he says
'its quite a bit larger than I imagined
the sentiment I get used to hearing'
gotta love it
lol
I unfortunately hear this... But instead of larger i get smaller T_T ;)
"It's quite a bit larger than I imagined." Says his girlfriend after putting down the magnifying scope.
I don't know how you keep doing this, but every time I'm looking at a product, you somehow make a review of it at the same time. Love this channel!
Badseedtech is to “Ready? Let’s Gooo” as Austin Evans is to “Hey Guys, This is Austin”
"Hey guys, BT here" "Awwww yeaaaa"
The difference between an alpha and a beta.
Your reviews are the most chill to watch of all tech reviewers!
The X3 is shockingly legit! I appreciate the in-depth look.
new to you're channel, found it while watching reviews on the phillips fideilo x2hr which you had sold me on.
hey thanks for checking this out!
Love Sound Blaster so many years! Recon 3Ds + JDS amp + Denon D7000 = my sound setup for gaming. Thanks for information!
THANKS MAN, been waiting for this review since the release of the x3
now I can finally pull the trigger
I'm loving your channel, keep up the great work man!
Yes! You did it!! Awesome! I’ve been waiting for your review on this!
Thanks for the great video it gives me all the info I have been looking for about this product. have you considered doing a Sound blaster X3 vs Sound blaster X4
This has to be one of the most helpful and non bias review channels I've come across with second to none production, you deserve more followers!
I know there's links in the descriptions but give us a insight to the brain/ears behind the beard!
Please give us a video on your current music preferences, favorite artists and some tracks to really test our new hardware on!
After all who doesn't enjoy discovering new music!
Yes! I was just looking through old videos craving a new review! My prayers have been answered lol!
@9:38 the onscreen text shows the same power output on low gain and high gain, but he says out loud that high gain with a “105 Ω headphone” will see a 45mW output.
Is there any way you can do a comparison between the X3 vs. G6?
The G6 has a slightly better dac, that's it really if you don't have speakers. If you do have speakers get the X3 because of the outputs for that
It would be great to have a video specifically aimed at surround sound in games and what one needs to get and configure to truly get that experience. There are growing number of games that include 7.1 surround sound natively but with all of these options, how do you get it? Does the DAC have to have sorround sound mode if the games has it built in? Is "virtual" surround some of these offer the same experience? How does the headphones play in?
Superb reviewer! Howcome I haven't come across you before!?
Detailed, decisive, transparent. Articulate selection of words too.
Keep up the good work!
The only thing I want is the best solution for super super sweaty competitive play. All I care about is Footsteps, reloads, and sound cue allowing me to locate anyone solely based in sound.
I have the GSX 1,000 and a pair of DT 770 Pro's and this just doesn't cut it, do you think this product in the video would provide what I'm looking for combined with a pair of MASSDROP X SENNHEISER HD 58X JUBILEE HEADPHONES?
But as far as your content and this video my God your production quality is top notch. Your reviews are basically the only ones I trust.
I have the HD58x Jubilee, I actually can pin point my enemies without any amp/dac
I guess the Soundblaster in scout mode (footsteps mode) may offer better sound cues
I just ordered one, i’ll let you know if i find any improvements (just remind me lol)
I think the straight up sweatiest would be SBX Scout Mode with the DT 990
@@azozfs5330 Hello, did you find the soundblaster surround sound to help with directional cues?
I'm currently using a Yamaha HTR-5740 as my DAC. My headphones are plugged into that and I love it. My modmic is supposed to be coming in today. That will mostly be used for teleconferencing , and it will be plugged into my PC tower directly.
Honestly, this review convinced me to get the Soundblaster and although it JUST came in for me, I couldn't be happier with it! Huge boost to my audio game and I can't wait to explore it's options and ranges as my needs evolve through gaming, casual music, and editing!
For reference, I'm powering a pair of Logitech G Pro X's and it sounds great!
did it make footstep audio better for the Logitech G Pro X's? Struggling to find good audio with g hub for FPS (specifically warzone)
@@IdeasDzn I was actually using it for CoD myself so yes I had noticed minute differences, especially when it comes to hearing doors open or distant movement like shrubs moving etc.
Honestly, just extremely surprised at how this thing elevated the G Pro X, the fact that I'm getting so much more out of it interms of sheer out put, quality and just even footsteps makes it a worthwhile purchase!
Also, jut recently routed my Edifier speakers into them which is great, and although I still need to control master volume natively with the speaker, my whole setup is routed into this little machine and it's lifting it all up perfectly!
As someone who isn't an audiophile, I see this as a definite eng-game machine for your audio needs as a general consumer
ThatMillGuy you have got me convinced! Will most likely be purchasing within the next few days to give it a go! Was really kind of let down with the audio quality of the G PRO X as I don’t use the blue microphone that was included and was going to purchase the Baerdynamic DT990 PRO. Didn’t want to mess with getting 2 pairs of headphones in a couple months so hopefully this is the golden ticket! Thank you for your advice man 🙏🏼💜
@@IdeasDzn I don't think you'll be dissapointed! Also, if you ever end up upgrading headphones, you'll know you have a DAC/AMP that will power it like a champ!
ThatMillGuy just got it in everything sounds great 👍 but on the super x-fi tab where you are supposed to select your headphones there is not Logitech g pro x or any Logitech headsets at all, I’m assuming you have it on unknown headphones!? Let me know ASAP and thanks once again ! 🙏🏼💜
I'm in the only perso who does not understand why on earth we want the mic/headphone plugs in the front? What I'm missing here? Do people love having cables on top of their desks. After hours of research, I'm getting a GSX 1000 because apparently, it is the ONLY option that has rear mic & headphones.
He could sell you anything, maintaining clear & concise diction paired with outstanding delivery of every word.
Any shot you can take a look at the x4? Thank you for the great reviews!
those gold rimmed Glassy's are actually SO clean looking on you! i wear the zooma models every day (prescription) and love em. SUPER stoked to see good content creators coming together with good companies
Best reviews on RUclips by far,Badseed tells you the truth no bull!
Best review content on RUclips by the way
I got this a couple of weeks ago so here's my 2p. I currently have a Magni 3 so was looking to complete the stack. However I needed a mic input for gamin and the stack would not have solved that problem neatly.
For reference I run Phillips SHP9500s and a vmoda boom pro mic for gaming and have X2HRs and 6XX for anything else.
I find that there's more than enough power to give me the volume I need on all by that's of course subjective. The headphone input must be a 4 pole as I can use a single cable so keeps my setup nice and clean.
As Brian alludes to the mic input is great and sounds fantastic. I personally just run direct for gaming and think that sounds great.
I love that its bus powered so that keeps things clean on the desktop. Overall, it suits me for being able to drive the headphones mentioned whilst allowing me to keep cables to a minimum.
If the Hel was a bit cheaper I would have got this but for just over £100 in the UK It was the best value option for what I needed.
Is this can use for singing karaoke online
@jonathanphang so Philips SHP9500s with vmoda works perfect with the X3?????????
I use this coupled with the Razer tiamat v2 in discreet surround sound using the rear pins. Works like a hack in FPS games. This product was never meant to be used with the front 3.5mm jacks. The sennheiser doesnt have discreet surround so yeah...
I already fell down the rabbit hole, my dt 1990's pro's arrived last week after watching your review on them, i freaking love them.
Thanks so much for reviewing this!!!!
Nice video, can you maybe make a video on the Astro MixAmp with other headphones besides the Astro’s, because I can’t find the MixAmp’s power limit anywhere.
So glad you made a review on this, I have one and absolutely love it.
Can you tell me what headphones you use? And if the surround sound is good for gaming in your experience? is this thing good enough for music?
I use a pair of (don't hate me for this) Razer Kraken Forged Edition headphones. I've found that this dac/amp with the music preset makes this headphones MUCH clearer and better sounding. I primarily use it for listening to music but it excels in gaming as well. As for the surround sound, I prefer it to be off. Not that big a fan of it but your experience may vary.
I should be clear that I am NOT an audiophile and cannot discern subtle differences in audio. But I can say for a fact that this thing makes a pair of old RAZER headphones of all things sound pretty damn good, in my opinion of course.
Hi, I know the sxfi button can be used to switch between speakers and headphones. When the PC boots up, and if your headphones stay permanently connected, does your last output (speaker) stay on or resets to headphones? Thanks in advance!
@@imraneo It stays on, I have something connected to the speaker output and the headphone output at all times. Though I should mention that I've experienced some bugs where it won't keep your output balance equal upon booting from a full shutdown on occasion. By that I mean the audio levels on the the left, right, center and so on of your audio equipment won't be at the same volume level. In particular, the left output ends up MUCH higher than the others but at least it's an easy fix. It doesn't happen all the time but I would still like for them to put out a bug fix for this issue soon.
I sent the Sound Blaster X3 back. I am looking for the right amplifier for my Sennheiser HD598se. I am undecided between FiiO K5 Pro, Schiit Fulla 3, Topping DX3 Pro and Schiit Hel. I don't know if Topping and Hel improve the sound quality compared to the fulla on the 598.
Bought this amp and the RÖDE AI-1, comparing those I will keep the AI-1, I use the Beyer Dynamics headset MMX300 and the dynamic and separation is much better on that one. No software needed to and mic monitoring functions flawlessly with an 3.5 mm mic adapter. Great review though!
Great video. Any chance of a review of the Astro A40, or the Mixamp (or both))?
I picked up one of these about a month ago. Its a really nice unit. Esp for the price point.
Here for the "Let's go!!" Stayed for another great review!!!
Ngl your beard is awesome man!! Especially with the gray hints, when it goes full gray your Gonna be a badass!!!!!
"Audiophile curious" That's the term for myself I've been searching for. 🖖
Hey! I have some speakers I'll use along side the headphones but they work with just a single 3.5mm jack, will the rear ports still work with this and which jack should I plug them into? The other thing is how does switching between the output devices work. Many thanks, loving the channel
Outstanding review/video Brian! Your Beginners guide to sound came in real handy also. Getting your sound outside of case was excellent advice. My MB is real noisy. My old dac was just amplifying all that. The X3 is a great all in one unit for the money. My biggest beef with Creative is lack of support in the long run.
Dude all of these videos are seriously well made. Like, shit. These're some good fuckin' videos.
Hi Badseed great video, This X3 or the AE9? Thanks
so the X3 is better then Sennheiser GSX 1000 I have the Sennheiser GSX 1200 PRO which is pretty much the same thing so is it worth switching or just keep what I have ?
Elder, Creative Sound x3 and g6, which one is better for playing games in fps?
I'm happy to hear your experience with the X3 was much better than mine. Mine had some really nasty distortion on top of all of the audio that was being output and added some pretty noticeable audio latency on top of that. Tried reinstalling the drivers and software to no avail and ended up sending it back the next day.
Out of curiosity - do you remember what bitrate you were running it?
BadSeed Tech I unfortunately don’t. It’s been a while since I sent it back. I also had these issues when plugged into my PS4 as well.
i already have one of these. it is great. I also have hd660s headphones, am i wasting my money if i upgrade to dac and amp stack ( schit / topping. ) or is it worth the upgrade. i can afford the upgrade. would the difference be noticaible. im gaming and listening to tunes not really interested in the surround feteaures on the sbx3. dolby atmos is perfect for the games i play.
I'm a complete newbie with DACs so please bare with me. Right now I'm using the very old Altec Lansing ACS48 2.1 computer speaker set and I want to continue using it as it's still working very well and I'm satisfied with the sound. The speakers' only input is through its attached cable with a 3.5mm plug. I'm therefore looking for a DAC that would be a good match in sound quality with my speakers and have a 3.5mm speakers output with also a volume control knob. It looks like the Sound Blaster X3 has what I need, but having to create an account is a turn off. Do any of you have any suggestions?
I wish this had headphone and mic jacks at the back of the unit as well, I don't really like having cables trailing across my desk, I'd rather have them plugged in at the back and then routed underneath the desk
I've seen so many products.. and only the GSX1000 seems to have it at the back..
Great vid as always, intro is banging... Curious if youre ever going to look at any IEMs on the channel? Ive been kinda getting into them lately as a fall down the audio rabbit hole. GGs man.
Also would like to see this
I think there's an error at 9:37
Is this still worth buying a year later? What about the one that looks like a newer model X4?
12:21 However, it requires a scan of your face......a login account.......and computer software dependent on windows. Make it Driverless and put all the features on the device with a basic LCD display and get rid of the face scan and the account login.
Been waiting for this review!
Pause real quick. Can we just take a moment to acknowledge that amazing mustache and beard our man has cultivated.
Hi, at 11.13 you talk about stacking it with an atom amplifier. For MOVIE watching only from an HTPC, how did you add the headphone amplifier to the X3? Did you use the headphone output to keep the Super X-Fi processing?
Hi Brian, I’ve purchased this purely for PC gaming based off your video.
I’ve also purchased a mod mic uni and a DT 990 Pro. Excited to try these out.
he clearly said, is not good for gaming...
@@philipmanetas he very clearly said nothing of the sort?
@@JLRO7 does it properly run the dt 990 pro? Or is it lacking of power?
@@schylur I ended up returning the X3, buggiest piece of equipment I’ve ever used. I would go as far to say completely unusable. I can’t stress how much I dislike this product lol.
But to answer your question, it runs the 990 no issues. Very very enjoyable for music when it decides to work.
If you’re interested in what I swapped to, it was a ifi zen dac and the build quality, sound quality and bug free experience has been a blessing compared to the X3.
@@JLRO7 thanks for the feedback I will check out that dac and yea I agree of the bugs in X3.
When using chatmix you still only have to have the single USB cable coming from your PC to the X3? Other than the X3 and GSX 1000, are there any other audio solutions with the chatmix feature worth knowing about?
Great video overall, thanks for putting together such informative content.
Hi Brian, sorry for the late question but as of now, what do you recommend as the best 7.1 positional solution to PC gaming? Thanks and love the channel.
Thanks for the review. I bought this about a month ago, had to buy a new headset to go with it..(Game One) long story but part of me feels not happy because i don't bother with all the settings and wonder if i'd do better with a Schiit stack or at least a Fulla 3
This channel is a wealth of info.
I always wanted to get into audio.
Just bought the Razer Kraken Ultimate and I am horrified I paid for this and now on the market for new headset.
Right now I am looking at SteelSeries Arctis Pro.
Should I buy this and use with Audio Technica M50 and/or HyperX Cloud Alpha headphones? Or should I better invest in more high-end headphones for better results?
I have the Super X-Fi gumstick DAC/Amp and I totally agree with your assessment about games. I love everything about the dac/amp, but I just cannot use it for games. I'm a top 500 overwatch player and I've played at ESL Cologne and I couldn't get use to the processing for games. Everything else, pretty good. Sometimes I found processing for music to be a little unnatural too though.
Can you tell me your gaming setup?
I'm currently using astro mixamp 2011 for warzone on boost low and the positioning seems lackluster on dolby surround mode.
Got a pair of Senheiser HD 599's I use for gaming with an antlion modmic attached. Will this be enough to power them?
Hi! Can I plug it in an stereo speaker with p2 cabe (just like as you do to plu a headphone)? I mean if I plug in a JBL charge 4, with a P2 cabe connected to the soundblaster x3, does it works just like as in a headphone?
Which mic for gaming would you get for this? Is there a good 3,5mm mic to use with this soundcard? Or maybe a condenser mic with phantom power and XLR to jack cable?
i bought the x 3 for my ps 4. definitely a great deal for 120 dollars, easy to set up, phone app to control the device works great, sounds great. Does not have enough power. Barely drove hifi man sundara, moderately drove beyerdynamic custom studio, than tested Phillips fidelo x3 and brainwavz HM 5 and it got loud but still just under the volume level i like. Replaced the Creative x3 with the G6 and it drives all the headphones i have beautifully.
Hey Bryan! This or the G6? I am deciding between the two!
Same
same
I own both. Get the X3. The g6 side tone issue was its downfall. The SBX sounds the same in ab testing. I really like super xfi as well.
Just bought the Beyerdynamic MMX 300 , is ether of those a good fit for it? Or is there a better option.
@@Trace153 I went with the g6 in the end. Its good. Good amplification and sound. Im satisfied with it
Can I use this with the Sennheiser PC37X Gaming Headset? Or any DAC AMP for that matter?
Hey B have you done a video on the GoXLR? Need to check. Would be curious about your thoughts on it. I'm planning to use it in my first 'true' setup I'm building.
.. fantastic video man. Really liked this one as I'm interested /lookin.. anyway. Cheers
Good review. Could you help me with this question. I have a MSI X99A gaming motherboard which I bought back in the day as it is suppose to have a decent onboard sound. I use an AKG 240 (i think middle production) which is 600ohms and have a Modmic on the way thanks to your reviews (if it ever comes off pre-order from amazon!). Would getting the X3 give me a lot better sound? I only want this for gaming really with maybe a little bit of music. My AKG is a 3.5mm jack but i use a 6.35mm converter which my motherboard supports as I have noticed the sound is a lot louder from the 6.35mm input on the motherboard than the 3.5mm, which I thought was a bit odd I assumed they'd both be using the same driver. So basically, would this be a worth while investment? Thanking you in advance, Sam
I bought this 2 days ago to replace my Xonar U5. Can't wait for it to turn up
Have you reviewed the new X4 or planning to anytime soon? Thnx
9:36 35 mW at 105 ohm at it drives dt 990 pro 250 ohm? It doesn't make sense, am I missing something. Isn't it underpowered?
If you need a microphone input and live in a part of the world that you can get the Creative X3 for 106$ and need 165$ for the Schiit Fulla 4 would you still go for the latter?
I'm currently using a Drop X Sennheiser PC38X and willing to buy some time the HD58X and some entry level planars
9:40 so you said the X3 can do 45mW and 35mW on low and high gain. and then you said the modi-magni 3 schiit stack can do 2400mW...this means the schiit stack is more powerful and efficient and will be better at powering high impedance headphones? please can you do a test with 600 ohm headphones on these Amp+Dacs that you're reviewing. i wanna get the best one that will work for me forever no matter what headphones i get in the future. and not have to buy another amp again.
Should I sell off my gsx1000 for this/ the schiit Hel or should I just get the atom/Heresy amp?
I only paid $109 for the gsx so my investment so far has been great. I just got the gsp500’s and am looking at getting the 2020 hifiman’s and the 58x/hd600’s in the near future?
Got this a couple weeks ago, can confirm it is a great all-rounder. Powers my B&0 H9i pretty well too!
cringe.
I have always thought of B&O of focusing more on design than strictly on sound quality. A lot of their stuff looks really cool, but it certainly isn't the best bang for the buck, and sometimes is designed more towards aesthetics than sound quality. definitely some cool stuff to go look at in a store, but personally I wouldn't buy it as audiophile gear if you are focused on sound quality above all else. and sennheiser drops the ball almost across the board on this especially SXFI
Thank god you put that bit about it not being better than the G6 for sound quality at the end, I just bought a G6 and I was about to be mad lol... do you think the amp in the g6 is more powerful?
when you tested this were you using gen 1 or gen 2 of the super x-fi - i heard the gen 2 fixed some of the gaming issues?
Wich one would u suggest between this x3 or the soundblaster g6?
Is there any differences in terms of sound in gaming? Is the software better or not?
(Sorry for bad english)
Dose it has mic effects sound like revarbs and echo like old versions 5.1 XI-FI
Just upgraded to a 3080 ti and it's so big it covers the pcie slot my Sound Blaster zX goes in. Time for an external sound card, this helped with my decision.
I use the steel series artics pro, beyerdynamic MMX 300, and massdropxsennheiser HD58x for gaming on my pc desktop. Any recommendations for a dac/amp for these headsets. would the SCHiit stack or soundblaster X3 be overkill for this or just fine?
Bro, you know your stuff. Love your vids and how you present everything. 👊🏽 Subbed.
ASUS Xonar DX vs Sound Blaster X3, which one will you pick? Currently I have Xonar DX with my Edifier 5.1 sound system, do you think X3 will perform any better than Xonar DX?
im sorry but the "you ready lets go" just hits different, keep up the amazing content
Can I use the optical port on the Dac to connect to a ps3 or ps4? Because the g6 did connect and worked so I was wondering if this unit would work as well?
Hey, I got the Astro A40 TR... Only the headset, does the Amp improves something? is it worth it? or should I get something like this one?
does this mean that xfi mode is worse than the virtual surround you find on the sbz? I liked the virtual surround on the sbz quite a lot.
I was thinking about getting this unit but I really don’t know if I should pull the trigger on it. It has a lot of options I know that I’ll enjoy but I don’t want to to sacrifice sound quality while listening to music. I don’t think there are other as well rounded options on the market though. I was thinking of pairing these with HD58x jubilees and or some pc37xs. I don’t what solution I’ll use for a microphone yet if I go for the jubilees though.
Hi, if I have a USB mic, could I use this solely for headphones and everything would work fine right? Sorry if this is a bad question
Been doing research for weeks trying to figure out the best gaming headset set up for PS4 and you definitely sold me on these! Now I just need to pick a good headset.
Great Review. It was my introduction to dipping my toe into the world of quality audio. Soundblaster X3 and now the JDS atom on the way with D770 80 ohms and also the Fedlio X2HR.
Just a question when stacking it with the JDS Atom. Do you run the X3 in Hi or Low Gain mode?
Also did you just plug it from 3.5mm headphone out into the 3.5mm input on the Atom?
Cheer mate!
1. Doesn't really matter. See what works best.
2. You can also just get a RCA-to-3.5mm and plug the 3.5mm into the headphone out on the X3 into the RCA in on the Atom.
But get some better headphones first maybe. A Sundara would be a proper upgrade.
Awesome review just solidify my decision 👍
One thing i need to know and i'd appreciate an answer, because i'm looking for something specific.
Can this DAC output AT THE SAME TIME, audio from PC, into the device that is connected to Optical OUT, and my speakers (line out)