SB Live 5.1 cards (and to some degree, Altec Lansing ADA880R) -- Any Good?

[TAsunder]

I've seen brief mention here and there about the new SB Live 5.1 cards. Does anyone know much about these buggers? Do they actually decode 5.1, or do they just "sort of" decode it, i.e. simulate 5.1 decoding or some such stuff? How are they? How's the sound quality?

In a related note.. I am wondering whether the SB Lives (non platinum) such as X-Gamer and MP3 (and value) versions have the correct connectors to hook into the digital port of the Altec Lansing ADA 880R?

Oh and lastly, does the X-Gamer come with FULL versions of the games it is packaged with, or just demos? I am unable to find that information on their site or anywhere else really.

 

[AMB]

It still doesnt decode it; It can just output it.

The old Sb Live will work the Altec Lansing ADA 880R, all you need is a coverter, It will be exactly the same witht he new one, you will need a converter. Somethime like this: 3.5mm to RCA Phono Connector

I do not have any idea about the the software bundle, have a look at Creatives site for that

 

[TatSteeL]

TAsunder, I have that Altec Lansing ADA880R too and I just bought the SB Live Platium 5.1, It saids there's an MP3 decoder which am not sure if it include decodes. I'll post again to let you know if it work or not once I recieve my SB Live card.

 

[AMB]

The new Sb Live do not offer DD 5.1 decoding, they can only offer DD 5.1 pass-thru,

Having DD 5.1 decoding is useless for the ADA880R, as it does the decoding it self.