Vantec USB External 5.1 Audio Adapter

Posted August 31, 2007 at 09:51 PM by Chris Marshall

Section: Audio, Portable Audio, Computers

I like the look of this as a concept as anything that saves people from having to crack open their computers upgrading sound cards seems a good thing to me.  But as a Mac user I was immediately drawn to the phrase:

“Though it’s labeled as being compatible with both Windows and Mac OS, you don’t get the advertised features with Mac OS usage; with Mac OS you only get stereo output and the volume control buttons on the unit don’t work. Thus, in practice it’s really only worthwhile for Windows users.”

That just seems plain daft to me as everyone knows (sic) that Mac users are more creative with their computing and way more “into” their music. OK, I can’t prove that one bit but you would have thought that a market that is dominated by the iPod and iTunes would be worth going after. Yes I know the iPod and iTunes work on Windows BUT that is my point really - why make something that is potentially so useful for only one side of the fence.

Now the review doesn’t say if it works under Windows on a Mac which would be somewhat ironic, and not particularly useful, but it would at least be an option.

All of that to one side, the device does seem like a pretty efficient way of getting 5.1 surround sound on your PC or Notebook without the hassle of upgrading your sound card, so if that appeals to you I suggest you check it out.

Via [Virtual Hideout]