Creative Technology Announces Sound Blaster Audigy 2

Creative Technology has announced the Sound Blaster Audigy 2 sound card, the first PC card to support the new DVD-Audio format. The Sound Blaster Audigy 2 comes in two versions: in a PC card configuration (the Sound Blaster Audigy 2), and in a drive-bay configuration with front-facing controls (Blaster Audigy 2 Platinum). Both versions contain these features:

24-bit/96kHz recording and up-mix of stereo MP3 music into full 6.1 surround sound

24-bit audio performance at 106dB SNR

Support for 64 3D-hardware voices

Support for a discrete rear-center speaker (6.1 surround sound)

A SB1394 (FireWire) port for fast transfer of music to and from the PC

Support for simultaneous digital and analog connectivity to devices such as MIDI instruments, external digital audio devices and headphones

The ability to generate high-definition EAX advanced HD effects such as Environment Morphing, Environment Panning, Environment Reflections and Environment Filtering technologies

Claims to be the only PC sound card with THX certification The Sound Blaster Audigy 2 Platinum also comes equipped with a remote control. The Sound Blaster Audigy 2 has an estimated street price of $129.99 and the Sound Blaster Audigy 2 Platinum has an estimated street price of $199.99. Both products are slated for worldwide shipment in October.