Asus Xonar D2X vs Auzentech Prelude X-Fi

[b1lk1]

No, it definitely does not have it.

[Babrbarossa]

The expensive X-FIs seem like a total waste of money if you have a decent amp doing the decoding- does your typical denon, HK, or higher ned yamaha decode better than, say, the prelude? I would guess yes, but I've never done a side by side listen..

[Robscix]

Many have tested the Prelude against low-mid level receivers in both analog and digital mode and almost 99% of the time the X-fi is better in analog mode then digital. Which proves, the Prelude has better DAC units then the tested receivers.
The Prelude or other more modern card with high end DAC's have better decoding capability then many receivers, unless you start getting into higher end gear that cost mocho dollars. Of course the user should always test both connection methods to see which sounds better.

[open-6]

Originally Posted by Robscix

I am pretty sure it does NOT have that connector.

Originally Posted by b1lk1

No, it definitely does not have it.

That's a deal breaker. I was heavily leaning toward the Xonar D2X, but I have to go with the Prelude X-Fi now.

[Robscix]

You could always use a splitter adapter off the front channel outputs.. connect up your cans to them. I mean if you like a card that doesn't have the front panel connector.

[Oversized Rooster]

Originally Posted by open-6

That's a deal breaker. I was heavily leaning toward the Xonar D2X, but I have to go with the Prelude X-Fi now.

U make it sound like a bad thing...I love my Prelude. Upgraded from an X-Fi XtremeMusic which died.

[yoyolai]

Originally Posted by open-6

Does the Xonar D2X support Front Panel Audio Connection?

That's pretty much the only down side of Xonar D2X, it doesn't have the FP header.

But check the new Xonar DX, according to the PR and user review on NewEgg, it not only have the same DAC as X-Fi Elite Pro, but also has the FP header. Plus the way better VISTA support, I'll say go give it a try.

NewEgg: Customer Reviews Of ASUS Xonar DX 7.1 Channels PCI Express Interface Sound Card - Retail

Asus Spec: ASUSTeK Computer Inc.

[Robscix]

The Xonar DX has a Front Panel Audio connector compatible with both AC 97' and Intel HD audio..There is also a AUX_IN on the card for internal connections of TV card etc..