The ASUS Xonar U7 does bring a bundle of features to those who need an external soundcard should they be using a notebook or not have space internally for their desktop. Providing up to 7.1 channels and a line in/mic with 24bit/192kHz sample rates as well as including a headphone amp (despite being weak) there is a lot to like about this product. The sleek looks allow it to look at home on the desktop and the functional design giving you control of microphone, master volume and switching between output sources (speakers/headphone/ and S/PDIF if in use) makes life that little easier.



If we were to state some obvious things, there are various downsides to using a USB soundcard, most of them universal and inherent. Though if you are someone who requires such a product then all are oversights. We could say something like, 'a comparable discrete option would be better' but that would be pointless. The only real negative to this product is the weakness of the headphone amp and the lack of a 6.4mm jack (Quarter inch). If you are someone who primarily uses high impedance headphones, then simply, do not buy this product as you will be better served by a true dedicated headphone amp/DAC. Though if you do use various audio output devices and want them all connected to a capable hub that is functional, portable and improves your audio fidelity over legacy options, then the Xonar U7 is certainly one to consider as this does all of that very well at a good price too.

The ASUS Xonar U7 is full of functional features in a fantastic finish giving fine fidelity. Deserving of our Gold award.





Click here for an explanation of our awards at Vortez.net. Thanks to ASUS for providing today’s review sample.