retep_110 wrote on 2025-12-01, 07:01:

Is one model more preferable than others form a pure retro gaming (winxp) standpoint) or would be any x-fi card a good pick?

First, you need to decide whether you want a PCI or PCIe version of the X-Fi. Then, look here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sound_Blaster_X … Fi#X-Fi_line-up

Avoid any "Xtreme Audio" models, as they don't have hardware acceleration for EAX. Also, don't buy a Titanium HD (emphasis on HD) since it doesn't have WinXP drivers, unlike other Titanium cards. Everything else should be fine, and it depends on how much money you want to spend.

Joseph_Joestar wrote on 2025-12-01, 07:15:

retep_110 wrote on 2025-12-01, 07:01:

Is one model more preferable than others form a pure retro gaming (winxp) standpoint) or would be any x-fi card a good pick?

First, you need to decide whether you want a PCI or PCIe version of the X-Fi. Then, look here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sound_Blaster_X … Fi#X-Fi_line-up

Avoid any "Xtreme Audio" models, as they don't have hardware acceleration for EAX. Also, don't buy a Titanium HD (emphasis on HD) since it doesn't have WinXP drivers, unlike other Titanium cards. Everything else should be fine, and it depends on how much money you want to spend.

Thanks for the info. I was not a aware that there is PCI version as well. I am going to use PCIe mainboard so only the PCIe version is an option. You helped me to avoid a pitfall. Also thanks for providing a link. I will check it out asap.

You basically have 3 models you can get;

SB0880 X-Fi Titanium PCIe
SB0886 X-Fi Titanium Fatal1ty PCIe
SB0888 X-Fi Titanium Professional PCIe

Actually, original PCI X-Fi cards (EMU20K1 based) are pretty good in terms of versatility.

I have PCI X-Fi Fatal1ty Edition (with I/O drive) and I'm quite happy with it. I also wanted to get PCIe version Titanium Fatal1ty Champion (EMU20K2), but later changed my mind.

PCI X-Fi Fatal1ty Edition notes:
- Available drivers for Windows XP to Windows 10 (Win 11 also works without memory integrity)
- X-Fi I/O drive fully compatible with older Audigy 2/2ZS cards. In contrast, PCIe version of I/O drive box has been cut down - lacking SPDIF and MIDI inputs/outputs
- Stable work on PCI-PCIe bridge mobos (tested on ASRock Z77 Pro3, Gigabyte B85-HD3-A)
- The card itself looks amazing with gold-color connectors

NeoG_ wrote on 2025-12-01, 09:33:

You basically have 3 models you can get; […]
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You basically have 3 models you can get;

SB0880 X-Fi Titanium PCIe
SB0886 X-Fi Titanium Fatal1ty PCIe
SB0888 X-Fi Titanium Professional PCIe

All models in the 8xx series are very disappointing.
Creative tried to keep the price the same as PCI cards, but with a more expensive Digital component (RAM&DSP).
Their analog power supply is a parody even of PCI-e Audigy RX v2 (which has a CS4382A DAC, not a CS4382)
If you don't want to be disappointed, go for the Auzen X-Fi Forte 7.1 or Titanium HD.

ott wrote on 2025-12-01, 09:47:

Actually, original PCI X-Fi cards (EMU20K1 based) are pretty good in terms of versatility.

Also, I think PCI X-Fi cards aren't subject to the OpenAL bug, which is present on PCIe cards when using newer drivers.

On the other hand, there are reports of PCI cards sometimes suffering from crackling/popping on certain motherboards, but that might depend on the chipset.

Thanks a lot for the further information. I will take a closer look at the recommended cards ASAP. Is there anything in particular to note concerning the drivers for WinXP gaming?

retep_110 wrote on 2025-12-01, 11:47:

Is there anything in particular to note concerning the drivers for WinXP gaming?

For PCIe X-Fi cards, you need to use driver version 2.17.0008 or older. Newer drivers introduce bugs with games which use OpenAL (e.g. Unreal 2, Doom 3, BioShock etc).

For original PCI X-Fi:
I prefer latest web driver for Windows XP, it's quite minimalistic and ready for gaming!
Fun fact, it's still available on Creative's site: SBXF_PCDRV_L11_2_30_0004.exe (README notes)

But I need some Creative apps, so I first install the CD driver with selected apps, then install the latest web driver - it automatically uninstalls the old driver.

Joseph_Joestar wrote on 2025-12-01, 15:51:

retep_110 wrote on 2025-12-01, 11:47:

Is there anything in particular to note concerning the drivers for WinXP gaming?

For PCIe X-Fi cards, you need to use driver version 2.17.0008 or older. Newer drivers introduce bugs with games which use OpenAL (e.g. Unreal 2, Doom 3, BioShock etc).

That is good to know thanks for the info. I have already thought that using older drives might cause some issues for certain winxp games.

Sound on entertainmet and not clear some nois, when I switch tho game mode no sound , I installed 2.17.0008 but no use for my card
My sound card info:
Sound blaster x-fi fatality champion model number SB0880 canadian ices-003 class B and on chipset writen creative CA20K2-2AG hf

Front panel box writen creative SB1110
I tryed in windows 7 and windows 10 and 11 but no use
Plzz any one provide me the correct drivers for windows 7
Note : Sound working but not clear some noise hear

For Win7/10 try using DanielK's latest X-Fi support pack. You can find that on his website.

My earlier comment about driver version 2.17.0008 was specifically aimed at WinXP.