Tuesday Creative Technology revealed the internally-developed Sound Core3D, a high performance audio processor combining four Quartet digital signaling processor (DSP) cores and a high-quality HD audio codec onto one low-power chip. The new processor will arrive in two flavors when it eventually hits the market: an HD audio configuration for desktops and an embedded configuration for consumer electronics.
According to the company, the Sound Core3D comprises of the four Quartet DSP cores, 6-channel 24-bit 102dB digital-to-analog converters, 4-channel 24-bits 101dB analog-to-digital converters, integrated headphone amplifier-out, digital microphone interface, S/PDIF inputs and outputs and general purpose inputs and outputs (GPIO) all in a compact 56-pin QFP package. It will also be Dolby Digital decode certified, depending on the parent device.
"We designed a sound and voice processor that will enable our OEM partners to deliver the highest quality Sound Blaster audio ever available for a motherboard while also bringing a new level of quality to sound and voice processing to consumer electronics products," said Steve Erickson, VP and GM of audio and video products at Creative Labs, Inc. "With Sound Core3D we deliver a versatile chip that can deliver the highest performance voice processing and audio playback from a single chip."
Creative also detailed the chip's support for its CrystalVoice technology designed specifically for "delivering crystal clear vocal fidelity in video conferencing, multiplayer games and online chats." CrystalVoice includes acoustic echo cancellation, background noise reduction and voice focusing, a voice-specific smart volume, a special equalizer and an effects bundle. The chip will also support THX TruStudio Pro and feature an additional audio toolbox of algorithms including a 10-band graphic EQ, bass management, speaker calibration, limiter, reverb and a pitch shifter.
Currently there's no indication of when we'll see Creative's Sound Core3D enter the market. However, Gigabyte has already signed on to incorporate the new technology into its motherboards. “We’re excited to continue our long-standing relationship with Creative to give our customers the best-sounding HD audio and voice processing available,” the company said.
More should be revealed this week at Computex, so stay tuned.
