Yeah so ive been a long time user of creative productions since 8bit soundblaster. These current windows xp xfi drivers are not acceptable. Constant sound crackling & muting. I have to toggle between enterainment mode, and game mode to fix the problem. Often when i do this the sounds gets jacked way up full of static.. enough static noise to destroy speakers, Creative needs to think smart, people buy there products to play games with eax, and have decent sound quality. They need to hire some high-end programmers to give them some much needed help. Ive heard there are some new drivers in the works but who knows. So far the latest beta's are even worse than previous versions. the real pissoff is I think the x-fi card is decent enough card but it all comes down to the drivers.
Seems to me that you're one of the unlucky few who experience crackling noises from their X-Fi's. Do a search for a bunch of known remedies (muting inputs, SVM, etc) - some people have reported such things to work for them.
It's very unfortunate but if you remember back there is always issues with each card that comes out. The Audigy 2's had their problems and the Adigy 1 squealed to death. Alot of times it's the software but in a few cases it the hardware or the interactions with your other hardware.
I have had absoulty no problems with mine (Fatality) so I am not even going to think about newer drivers till some time passes.
Wow I was seriously thinking about replacing my Old Trusty SB Live (whit kX Driver) to a X-FI music. But, eh.. not sure anymore.
Ever consider getting a X-Purity? Check out the thread about it the card is supposed to hit the market around AUgust. Spec wise it should be a very nice sound card.. check here: http://forums.guru3d.com/showthread.php?t=183439
Yes when I read the thread I did a Massive research on the net and found stuff I don't like. Don't remember what or it's just not available here in Québec Canada.
On Second tauths, it really seems like a Super product! And I found an Online place to buy, bought my 6800GS from them, so im Happy! Screw Creative. I'll wait for the X-Purity
Guru3D is reviewing it for us when it comes out. So it' really your choice but I would atleast wait and read the review. Hope that helps.
You might be relieved to hear there is a new X-Fi driver now http://forums.guru3d.com/showthread.php?t=188594
