Creative X7 LE Amp and E-MU XM7 Bookshelf Speaker Review

X7 Limited Edition

The regular version of the Sound Blaster X7 is black, but knowing our love for all things in that most pale of hues we’re pleased that the Limited Edition comes in white. This is also good for showing off, as there is an obvious difference between the regular version and the LE model.

Connectivity is covered by just about every possible option you can think of. Bluetooth, 3.5mm jack headphones, 6.3mm headphones (usually where you find the higher-end models) as well as the line in/out, optical in/out and USB connections at the rear. Lastly the X7 LE supports either 4Ω or 8Ω speakers, although we’re testing with the E-MU XM7 which are designed specifically to work harmoniously with the X7 LE.

      

Comparing the regular model with the Limited Edition and it’s clear that the specifications have been boosted, without massively changing the rated power output. The maximum is up considerably from 38W @ 4Ω to 50W @ 4Ω. This only adjust the rated power up from 35W to 37W. By keeping the output at a similar level you can be sure that the audio profile remains similar and thus the carefully tweaked default equaliser settings aren’t skewed. The other change is a lowering of the headphone impedance from 2.2Ω to a mere 1Ω, allowing even the weakest of audio sources to drive your headphones properly. This chance in resistance, and increase in maximum power output, is backed up by a beefier power supply outputting 6A rather than the 2.91A of the regular X7.