Creative Sound Blaster X5

A versatile, high-quality DAC for audiophiles, streamers and podcasters

- Cliff Joseph

£269.99 FROM uk.creative.com FEATURES Inputs – 1x USB-C, 1x mic, 1x RCA, 1x optical; Outputs – 1x 3.5mm, 1x 4.4mm, 1x RCA, 1x optical

There are several pocket-size portable DACs now available that are designed to provide high-quality audio for Macs and mobile devices, but Creative’s new Sound Blaster X5 is in a different league altogether. It can be used with mobile devices, but it’s primarily a desktop device for use with devices that are part of a wider home entertainment system, or for podcasters and streamers who need to set up a high-quality audio system for their work.