Contents
Introduction
Features & Specifications
Design, Build and Software
Performance
Conclusion
Conclusion
The Xonar U7 is your doorway to hi-fi sound grade on-the-go, be it movies, games or music. It blends well with all types of speakers, headphones and IEMs. Having true 7.1 surround is a common feature, but a neat one nevertheless. The added headphone amp is bonus, and can be used to drive high impedance IEMs and headphones.
I would not recommend the Xonar U7 for desktop computers though, as there are better and cheaper internal alternatives. ASUS’s own Xonar DX has better SNR, more inlets and outlets, and costs INR 5190 compared to the INR 5800 price tag the Xonar U7 commands. The Xonar U7 is definitely a worthy upgrade from the Xonar DG though, in terms of everything. Exclusively, the Xonar U7 is priced pragmatically, in line with it’s competition.
I am frankly very impressed with the ASUS Xonar U7, I am trying to think about its functional and performance shortcomings but there aren’t any to talk about. It is rather amazing how recent technology can bring this level of sound from just a 500mw USB outlet. My only major gripe is the lack of support of OS X, which is a HUGE bummer as far as the scope of such a product is concerned. Another minor complaint would be the lack of a 6.3mm (1/4″) jack. One can use a converter but it still is a minor inconvenience.
Whats iLL:
- Audiophile grade sound quality
- Easy-to-use software with a lot features
- Good headset amp
- Neat volume knob
- Portable
Whats not:
- Lack of support for OS X (Macbooks)
- No 6.3mm (1/4″) jack
Thanks for the detailed review. Can the Xonar U7 work standalone without being plugged into a computer running Windows? Obviously, one would still need to supply it power through the USB port. Ideally, one would configure the Xonar U7 in Windows using the ASUS software, reboot into OSX or Linux, and listen to the audio from there, assuming the Xonar U7 retains the setup parameters. Would that work?
Have tried that on my Macbook, didnt work. Surprisingly the device’s volume control knob works, but the sound output is still from the internal sound card of the laptop.
The specs look amazing, sadly it’s not available in the US
It is available on Amazon US. http://www.amazon.com/Asus-XONAR-U7-Xonar-USB-Soundkarte/dp/B00CP53ML2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1385525419&sr=8-1&keywords=xonar+u7
I actually contacted ASUS support and they said Xonar U7 is not on the list of products offered in North America. As for the amazon US – the three merchants who are currently offering the cards are simply buying them abroad (they say they ship from Korea, Italy, and France) and resell for a higher price. The ASUS rep said the warranty won’t work in the US.
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