Many people are starting to argue that onboard solutions are 'enough' or 'adequate', while it is true they are 'adequate', the fact is anyone concerned about sound quality will want to look for a discrete option and the Creative Sound Blaster Z is definitely worth considering. Quality built and great performance to boot, there is not a lot to pick up on the flaws. There is a dedicated 600ohm dedicated headphone amp which is a plus for gamers as well as input/output optical ports.



The issue with discrete sound cards, is that, with exception to Audiophiles and producers, once you reach a level of fidelity you are limited by the quality of your speakers and eventually, there isn't much difference to the ear, so we then have to look at other aspects of the overall package and what it offers the consumer. For example, the Creative Sound Blaster Z offers the dedicated headset jack but it only offers 5.1 surround and not 7.1. Another consideration is the price, the Creative Sound Blaster Z can be found for around £79.99 - 89.99, while this is 'mid range' for a sound card, it may be hard to swallow for some new to a discrete card. Finally, while the audio quality is great, to ear, is only 'just' on par with my aging Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi XtremeMusic, so may not make a perfect upgrade for those who already own a competent discrete sound card.

If you are in the market looking for a new sound card, the Sound Blaster Z gives a vast improvement over onboard solutions and can give crystal clear sound reproduction for games or entertainment. The bundled microphone is a great touch and finishes off a nice package so there is little reason not to recommend the Sound Blaster Z.





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