Some Xonar DS user comments/experience

[compor]

Just bought Xonar DS not long ago, and now try to post my user comments.

Although it’s the most affordable soundcard in ASUS Xonar series, but DS is a brilliant budget for those who don’t want to compromise to onboard soundcard but still hesitate to go with high-end models. Actually, it is precisely what I want: a compact sound card with bargain price!!!

Xonar DS is a low-profile PCI card, which can fit in small PC cases with its short height. Despite this, it still packs in many features. The replaceable Opamp for audiophiles to make their own upgrades is especially an astonishing one…and surprised for such a cheap card. Besides, the card supports analog connectivity and can decode DTS over the optical for ultra Hi-fi sounds.

I was convinced by its up to 192khz/4bit playback sample rate and 96khz/24bit recording rate, and, after my tests, both playback and recording quality are good for me. Although it’s kind of picky to expect it’s fully-featured as his older brothers (Xonar D2/D2X), Xonar DS isn’t a serious musician’s card because none of the Dolby technology is supported.

Xonar DS is an entry level sound card and perfect for the budget choice. I know it’s not enough for audio professionals, but I am satisfied with its performance now.

BTW, is there anyone using this card, too? I know I still miss (or not discover) some important features of DS. I would appreciate anyone giving comments or sharing his/her user experience as well.

 

[erikaxe]

I purchased a Xonar DS a few months back, and I've been pleased with it so far. It uses the same C-Media chip (CMI-8788) as a lot of high-end sound cards. I researched it quite a bit before purchasing, and I also found that it has excellent performance for the price.

Since I mainly use headphones, I can't comment on the performance with 7.1 channels. However, for stereo use it has been superb. I did replace the stock op-amp with a Burr Brown OPA2227PA, which sounds pretty good. There are better sounding op-amps available, but I'm a basshead Don't get me wrong, the DS sounds great even with the stock op-amp. Here's some more information on op-amps:

http://tangentsoft.net/audio/opamps.html

Currently, I have my Xonar DS connected to a Bravo V2 Class A tube amp, which feeds my headphones. At ~$40 the Xonar DS is a great deal.

 

[powerarron]

@compor
Ya, you did mention some points of Xonar DS but still miss other features which you might want to keep in mind.

The AV200 HD audio processor which can also be found in the more expensive D2/D2X models assures a good audio quality from Xonar DS as well. I think this feature is certainly convincing enough for those who are worried about DS’s sound quality due to its low cost.

Moreover, in spite of no EMI shield, DS still looks great for nicely laid out with Opamp and capacitors tucked nicely in between. (Well..u know.. this point could be a little subjective.)

BTW, you fail to mention the software part of Xonar DS. In Xonar DS, EAX 5.0 is supported for gamers to get an immersive experience out of any games that support EAX. Also, Xonar DS Audio Center with its sleek and friendly UI could be another attractive feature.

To sum up, I don’t think Xonar DS is a high-end audio card although it’s much better than onboard soundcards. However, for those who don’t wanna stick to onboard sound solution, Xonar DS could be a great entry-level rig and, of course, brilliant budget choice!

Just enjoy your Xonar DS, man…

Open to discussion.

 

[eddieck]

Also, Xonar DS Audio Center with its sleek and friendly UI could be another attractive feature.

Can I get some of the stuff you're smoking?

Don't get me wrong. I like my DS. But calling the control panel "sleek and friendly" is a bit far-fetched. I'd prefer something like the Auzentech cards have - a simple tabbed control panel, not this whole console crap.

 

[powerarron]

Can I get some of the stuff you're smoking?

Don't get me wrong. I like my DS. But calling the control panel "sleek and friendly" is a bit far-fetched. I'd prefer something like the Auzentech cards have - a simple tabbed control panel, not this whole console crap.

Well… I have to say that “sleek and friendly” is the term resulted from the comparison with Creative. It might not go too far that UI of ASUS Xonar is better than that of Creative. But, maybe someone has different opinions…