[Computex08] New ASUS HDMI soundcards

ASUS shows two new HDMI soundcards on its stand. Both are HDMI 1.3 compatible, supporting modern Blu-ray discs with Dolby TrueHD or DTS Master Audio soundtracks. The cards are also AACS (HDCP's competitor) certified, meaning the sound of Blu-ray discs can be broadcast with up to 192 kHz without limitations. The soundcards have an HDMI in, as well as HDMI out. This means the signal from the graphics card can be sent to the soundcard first, adding sound to the signal, after which you can connect the PC on a high-end receiver with a single cable.

The Xonar HDMI is meant for people that are already using an HDMI receiver. The card has no analog outputs. If you do require analog outputs however, there's the Xonar HDAV Deluxe. This has a special extra card with quality 7.1 analog output. To optimally enjoy the audio of modern Blu-ray audiotracks, ASUS promises a signal/noise-ratio of up to 120 dB. Both new cards will be available somewhere in the summer of this year.

ASUS Xonar HDMI

ASUS Xonar HDAV Deluxe

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