Asus Xonar vs Creative Elite Pro:

OpAmp: LM4562(Xonar) Vs JRC2114(X-Fi)

The LM4562 on the Xonar has improved noise rejection capabilities from PC's switch mode power supply. Improved CMRR (Common Mode Rejection Ratio) on the LM4562 removes any additional noise generated at its inputs. The JRC2114 used on the X-Fi is used extensively in electronics due to its low cost of implementation and noise rejection capabilities are low, which also means that it might be an issue when used with power supplies without careful power regulation and noise filtering.

Separate OpAmps used for balanced to unbalanced (and I/v) conversion and output used for Xonar which offers better performance, wheras the X-Fi uses a single dual-opamp for both differential and output circuit. Large possibility of reduced performance due to crosstalk.

Digital-to-Analouge Converter: PCM1796(Xonar) Vs CS4398(X-Fi)

The Burr Brown PCM1796 DAC has better SNR (Signal to Noise Ratio) when compared to the Cirrus Logic CS4398 found on the X-Fi. It has also been tested and proven in high-end Hi-fidelity electronics such as CD players. Although the CS4398 has good specifications but it would be more useful when applied in professional audio equipment.

Capacitors selection

Special attention was made on the use of capacitor type that specifically enhances the power and audio delivery paths on the Xonar, wheras the X-Fi is using one single type of capacitor for both applications.

The usage of various Taiwanese capacitors like Luxon and Jamicon non-low ESR capacitors on the X-Fi will offer moderate performance for the opamps. No film capacitors are seen, which is a pity as they can help improve transients, details and general performance of opamps, particularly those of the JRC 2114’s generation.

The usage of solid capacitors on the Xonar offers lower ESR which helps improve dynamics, details and extension for opamps. Solid caps also filter out high frequency noise better which helps as computer PSU’s generally output more high frequency noise & ripple.

Component placement

The Xonar offers well defined areas for its power and audio path. It offers ease of identification of areas of interest and allows noise generated by its powers regulators be easily controlled.

Conclusion

Specifications wise, the Xonar really does pack a very solid punch, and beats competition hands down in every area. For now, all we can do is to wait for the Xonar D2 launch in this coming quarter...

Many thanks to Tensor (Ignatius) and DreamSlacker (Benji) for their inputs!