ASUS Xonar Essence STX Sound Card

"The Essence STX is not only a great member of the Xonar family, it’s the best sounding board I've ever heard in this price bracket. I'm sure it will leave a lasting impression in the minds of competitors and may even send a few back to the chalk boards, scratching their heads. But most of all, I think it’s the age old cliché; `attention to detail` that lifts the STX above the crowd with some really nice components chosen and a very high degree of build quality, as with all ASUS products.

The choice of high quality Nichicon "Fine Gold" professional audio capacitors as well as Sanyo Os-con filters alongside their custom EMI shield and chipset allow the STX to stand out well. The software is not bloat ware and handles the job easily, allowing for quick and decisive control of important features. I really struggle to fault this little control center because it just seems to work!"