Realtek codecs are pants, says Analog Devices

REALTEK'S HIGH-DEFINITION audio cannot render EAX or EAX2 properly audio, according to Analog Devices and Creative Labs.

While Realtek's audio drivers have the proper driver flags to enable EAX and EAX2 in supported games, they do not actually work, the pair claim. Analog Devices makes the Soundmax integrated digital audio system and teamed with Creative in producing and selling Soundmax.

The EAX and EAX2 is not properly translated meaning that the 3D positional audio aspects and immersion of EAX and EAX2 disappear.

DailyTech checked out the claims and reckons they stand up completely. Realtek gear produced a muffled sound with little channel separation and differentiation. Sound came from all over the place and was muddier than Muddy Waters performing under 50 metres of sludge. µ

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