1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Creative Sound Blaster Audigy Fx V2 PCI-e Sound Card. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product to ensure proper setup and optimal performance.
2. Product Overview
The Creative Sound Blaster Audigy Fx V2 is an upgradable high-resolution PCI-e sound card designed to enhance your PC's audio experience. It features 5.1 discrete and virtual surround sound, a built-in headphone amplifier, and the SmartComms Kit for clear online communication.
Image 2.1: The Creative Sound Blaster Audigy Fx V2 PCI-e Sound Card.
Key Features:
- High-Resolution Audio: Experience up to 24-bit / 192 kHz playback with 120 dB DNR clarity.
- 5.1 Surround Sound: Enjoy immersive audio with 5.1 discrete and virtual surround capabilities for both speakers and headphones.
- Built-in Headphone Amplifier: Capable of driving 600Ω studio-grade headphones, delivering enhanced audio realism.
- SmartComms Kit: A suite of smart communication features including VoiceDetect (automatic unmute) and NoiseClean (two-way background noise cancellation).
- Compact Design: Half-height form factor with interchangeable mounting brackets for versatile PC configurations.
- Upgradable Performance: Supports an optional daughterboard expansion card (sold separately) for DSD256 playback, 7.1 discrete surround sound, and an optical-out port.
Image 2.2: User experiencing high-fidelity audio with the Sound Blaster Audigy Fx V2.
Image 2.3: Immersive gaming experience with 5.1 discrete and virtual surround sound.
Image 2.4: The Sound Blaster Audigy Fx V2 with the optional DBPro daughterboard for expanded audio capabilities.
Product Video:
Video 2.5: An overview of the Creative Sound Blaster Audigy Fx V2 Upgradable Sound Card, highlighting its features and benefits.
3. Setup and Installation
Follow these steps to install your Sound Blaster Audigy Fx V2 sound card into your PC.
3.1 Physical Installation
- Prepare your PC: Power off your computer and unplug all cables. Open the PC case.
- Locate a PCI-e slot: Identify an available PCI-e x1 slot on your motherboard.
- Remove the slot cover: Carefully remove the metal slot cover from the back of your PC case corresponding to the chosen PCI-e slot.
- Insert the sound card: Align the sound card with the PCI-e slot and press it firmly until it is securely seated. Ensure the metal bracket is flush with the back of the case.
- Secure the card: Fasten the sound card's bracket to the PC case using a screw.
- Close the PC case: Replace the PC case cover and reconnect all cables.
Images 3.1-3.4: Visual guide for installing the sound card into a PCI-e slot.
3.2 Connecting Audio Devices
The Sound Blaster Audigy Fx V2 provides various ports for connecting your audio devices:
Image 3.5: Overview of the Sound Blaster Audigy Fx V2 audio ports.
- Line-in port (Blue): For connecting mobile devices or MP3 players.
- Mic-in port (Red): For connecting an external mono microphone.
- Headphone / Front (L/R) port (Green): For 4-pole headsets, headphones, or front channels of a stereo or 5.1 analog speaker system.
- Rear (L/R) port (Black): For the rear channels of a 5.1 analog speaker system.
- Center / Subwoofer port (Orange): For the center and subwoofer channels of a 5.1 analog speaker system.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Software Installation
After physical installation, power on your PC. Windows will typically install basic drivers. For full functionality and access to all features, download and install the Creative app from the official Creative website. The Creative app is available for Windows 10 and above.
4.2 Using the Creative App
The Creative app provides a comprehensive interface to control and customize your Sound Blaster Audigy Fx V2.
Image 4.1: The Creative app interface for managing audio settings.
- Sound Mode: Select from various preset audio profiles or create custom EQ profiles.
- Acoustic Engine: Access a suite of audio technologies for surround, CrystalVoice, Bass, and Smart Volume adjustments.
- Scout Mode: Activate Scout Mode to enhance important in-game audio cues, such as footsteps and weapon reloads, providing a tactical advantage.
- SmartComms Kit: Configure VoiceDetect and NoiseClean features for improved online communication.
4.3 SmartComms Kit
The SmartComms Kit simplifies online communication with intelligent features:
Image 4.2: SmartComms Kit settings within the Creative app.
- VoiceDetect: Automatically unmutes your microphone when you speak and mutes it when you stop, freeing your hands during calls.
- NoiseClean: Reduces static background noise from both your outgoing and incoming audio during conversations, ensuring clearer communication.
5. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Sound Blaster Audigy Fx V2, follow these general maintenance guidelines:
- Keep the inside of your PC case clean and free of dust to prevent overheating and component damage.
- Ensure proper airflow within your PC case.
- Regularly update the Creative app and drivers from the official Creative website to benefit from the latest features and bug fixes.
- Avoid exposing the sound card to extreme temperatures or humidity.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Sound Blaster Audigy Fx V2, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
- No Sound Output:
- Verify that the sound card is correctly seated in the PCI-e slot.
- Check all audio cable connections to your speakers or headphones.
- Ensure the correct playback device is selected in your operating system's sound settings.
- Confirm that the volume levels are not muted or set too low in both the operating system and the Creative app.
- Reinstall the latest drivers for the sound card.
- Crackling or Distorted Audio:
- Check for loose cable connections.
- Ensure that the sound card drivers are up to date.
- Try adjusting the sample rate and bit depth in your sound settings.
- Disable any audio enhancements in the Creative app or Windows sound settings to see if they are causing interference.
- Microphone Not Working:
- Ensure the microphone is correctly plugged into the Mic-in port.
- Check microphone privacy settings in Windows.
- Select the correct recording device in your operating system's sound settings.
- Adjust microphone volume and boost levels in the Creative app and Windows settings.
- SmartComms Kit Features Not Functioning:
- Ensure the Creative app is running and the SmartComms Kit features are enabled.
- Verify that your microphone is properly configured and detected by the system.
- Check for any conflicting audio software or communication applications.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Creative |
| Model Number | SB1870 |
| Hardware Platform | PC |
| Hardware Interface | PCI Express x1 |
| Audio Output Mode | Stereo Surround |
| Playback Resolution | Up to 24-bit / 192 kHz |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio (DNR) | 120 dB |
| Headphone Amplifier | Supports up to 600Ω |
| Surround Sound | 5.1 Discrete and Virtual Surround |
| Compatible Operating Systems | Windows 10 |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 4.62 x 4.76 x 0.85 inches |
| Item Weight | 2.43 ounces |
| Included in Box | Sound Blaster Audigy FX V2 Sound Card, Quick Start Leaflet, half-height bracket |
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Creative website. For technical support, driver downloads, and further assistance, please visit the Creative support page or contact their customer service.
You may also consider purchasing extended protection plans for your product, which are available separately.
