

The user can otherwise select the music mode that best compliments their taste to customise the equaliser settings optimally. The effect console is where a range of pre-applied environmental settings can be chosen. The Record tab allows the user to select the recording devise input, such as MIC, Line-in, Aux and Mix. The next window is the mixer where the individual speaker volume can be altered.

The great thing about the GX mode is that it is applied instantaneously unlike on the X-Fi. The DSP mode includes the GX mode for 3D gaming audio, and the Hi-Fi mode. SVN refers to the Smart Volume setting which effectively brings low signal up and high signals down. On the right hand side, the user can select the volume and the DSP mode. The flipped up console shows the different modes that the audio centre is currently using and also has a graphical equaliser that records the different frequency response of the audio being played. If you are using an 8 channel output, this can be set here. The main console has options to customers the sample rate and number of audio channels used. The appearance reminds me of a flip up phone like devise so it's very intuitive.

The audio console is a very sleek, attractive and friendly user interface which a plethora of options even with the entry level sound card. Installing the software also installs the Xonar DS Audio Centre, which gives the user access to several features to customize the sound for their needs. I had the same issue with the Xonar D2 but the same patch works across the whole range of cards. To solve the issue, I had to install a patch by daniel_k, who some may know from the creative forums. It turns out that the HsMgr64.exe and the HsMgr.exe*32 processors and the DS3D GX feature, relating to the software was somehow interfering with Windows Media Player. One problem I did have after installation is that Windows Media Player would not work. However if you are using Windows 7, download the latest drivers on the ASUS page. The CD supplies contains the drivers so installing them is very straight forward.
