Date: November 16th, 2010
Article by: Jackie Mueller (Hardware Reviewer)
Edited By: Nathan Glentworth (Owner / Head Editor)
Product was submitted by: Asus
 <--CLICK FOR DEALS ON AN ASUS XONAR XENSE IN THE UNITED STATES
 <--CLICK FOR DEALS ON AN ASUS XONAR SOUNDCARD IN CANADA
PRODUCT COMPOSITION
The headset is viewable through the side of the box, while the top flips up to reveal the card (protected by plastic, of course) along with a list of its many features. This bundle carries a hefty price tag of around $279 US but as we'll see throughout this review, you get what you pay for.
The packaging was somewhat of a challenge to get open, but inside you'll find a small box with all the accessories and documentation for both the card and headset. This includes a 6.3mm to 3.5mm adaptor, S/PDIF TOSLINK optical adaptor, driver CD, 7.1 audio splitter cable, and Quick Start Guide.
PRODUCT PICTORIAL AND WALKTHROUGH
Sound Card
Like the Essensce STX, the Xense features a large EMI shield. This not only adds to the beautiful look of the card, but it keeps out interference from other components in the system. The card looks and feels very solid and durable.
Each input/output is labeled on the PCI bracket as well as on the rear of the PCB. From left to right is a 1/4" socket for a microphone or stereo input, 1/4" socket for headphones, a DVI connector and a coaxial/optical digital output. Rather than cram all the 3.5mm sockets on the PCI bracket, Asus chose to use a DVI connector with a splitter cable to separate the analog audio outputs.
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