The Software:

     Installing the included software is very simple and fast.  The X-Meridian uses the latest version of the Xear 3D Media Rack interface.

     As with the Auzetech cards we have previously reviewed, the software includes the driver and the Media Rack controller, and Auzen still includes the 3D helicopter demo to test your setup with.

     Lets take a look at the updated Xear software.  There are a lot of settings here to play with so I will attempt to show you most of the main features!  On the main settings page, you can select from digital output or choose the analog output that best describes your system.  This picture shows a typical 2 channel setup.

     With the normal mode, you can individually tune each speaker and run simple tests to fine tune your system.  This shot shows a typical 6-channel or 5.1 setup.

     Using the S/PDIF outputs gives several options as well.   With each setup you can see the result shown real time in the Audio System Status window. Make sure you select a sample rate that is supported by your external device. 

     Choosing your DSP mode opens up a wealth of new settings to play with.   Dolby Pro Logic IIx with Virtual 7.1 mode is shown here.  In each DSP mode you can individually tune each speaker for optimal output.  Several testing modes are available to fine tune every aspect of your audio experience.  Here, you can also select from a music or cinema experience and fine tune your center channel.

     The 7.1 Virtual Speaker Shifter  allows you to fine tune the sound stage to simulate 7.1 on a smaller system.  Each sound channel can be virtually moved and the volume adjusted to optimize the sound field.  Even the location of the listener can be moved during tuning.

     In the DTS NEO:PC mode shown here, again you can select from a music or cinema experience and fine tune your center gain to best utilize your center stage for playback.

     The Mixer tab provides all the familiar playback and recording adjustments. Advanced settings for things like Mic boost and S/PDIF settings are also available.

     The Effect tab offers fine tuning to suit your listening environment.  Simply choose from the four preset environments the setting that best matches your setup, select a matching environment size, and use the 10 band graphic equalizer to fine tune the output to suit your taste.  User defined settings can be saved for future reference.

Here is a closer look at the variety of pre-defined environment type you can choose from.