CREATIVESound Blaster X5 Hi-res 32bit/384kHz External USB DAC with Fully Balanced Xamp Headphone Bi-amp, Bluetooth Receiver, RCA in/-out, TOSLINK Optical in/-out, Mic-in, Headset-in for Audiophiles

Brilliant piece of kit if it's what you're looking for. I use it USB connected to my laptop and power two monitor speakers and also a soundbar/sub via the optical out option.I've also just purchased an Akai MPC Live 2 music production unit and this feeds into the line in option on the back of the SB unit.It sounds fantastic and although I don't really use all the available extra options for customised sound via the app on the laptop, it does the job of blasting music and enhancing game play dramatically as is for me.

As someone who’s cycled through a fair share of DACs and amps, I picked up the CREATIVE Sound Blaster X5 not expecting it to seriously compete with my more expensive setups — but I’m honestly impressed by how much value and flexibility it offers, especially at this price point.First, sound quality: the X5 delivers truly clean, detailed audio across the board. Running high-res 32bit/384kHz files, the clarity is immediately noticeable — excellent separation, wide but natural soundstage, and a tight, controlled low-end without any mud. Mids are clean and voices sound extremely lifelike. Treble is extended but smooth, avoiding the harshness you sometimes get in cheaper DAC/amps. It genuinely brings out the nuances in well-recorded tracks without coloring the sound too much.The balanced Xamp bi-amplification is the real deal — it drives my planar headphones (HIFIMAN Sundaras and a pair of Focal Clears) without any issue, and with noticeably better dynamics compared to single-ended setups. Even at higher volumes, the background remains silent with no audible hiss.Inputs and outputs are extremely versatile. RCA in/out, optical in/out, USB-C connection, mic/headset jacks — it's basically a full desktop hub. Bluetooth receiver quality is surprisingly decent too; not as pristine as wired, obviously, but perfectly acceptable for casual listening.Mic support is a bonus if you’re gaming or streaming. It’s clear Creative designed this unit to bridge between pure audiophile listening and high-quality general desktop use — and it does so better than I expected.Minor notes:No MQA support (if that matters to you), but native high-res support more than makes up for it.The software is robust but takes a bit of time to tweak if you want to customize everything (thankfully it remembers your settings).It’s not the smallest unit, so make sure you have space on your desk.Overall:If you’re looking for a serious, audiophile-grade DAC/amp that can also handle all the extras (mics, gaming, Bluetooth, optical setups), the Sound Blaster X5 is a phenomenal piece of gear. It punches way above its weight class and would be an easy recommendation for anyone who wants flexibility and genuinely high-end sound without getting lost in the £1,000+ rabbit hole.

Honestly, I would have given 0 stars or - stars!!! Very bad sound card! I can't believe that Creative's best is such horrible product! Static and sparks noise only, almost damaged my speakers! Terrible and expensive!

Much bigger than expected. I would compare it to 1 and a half house bricks