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PCIe sound card with separate desktop control module, black finish

Creative Labs

Creative Labs Sound Blaster AE-9 70SB178000000 PCIe sound card

SKU CH-YXA6-GZBDQ MPN 70SB178000000

PCIe sound card with ESS 9038Q2M DAC, 32-bit 384 KHz playback, 129dB SNR, 5.1 surround and 7.1 virtual channels, plus removable ACM control module

  • Interface typePCI Express x1
  • Part type or number70SB178000000
  • Audio chipSound Core3D
  • Audio channels5.1 surround channels, and up to 7.1 virtual surround channe
  • Sample rate384 kHz
  • Digital audio output32-bit
  • Audiophile-grade DAC delivers 129dB SNR for pristine sound clarity
  • 32-bit 384 KHz resolution captures every audio detail
  • Removable ACM control module puts volume and inputs at your fingertips
  • 1 surround with 7.1 virtual channels creates immersive gaming audio
  • PCIe x1 interface with dedicated power ensures stable high-performance operation

Audiophile PCIe sound card

The Creative Sound Blaster AE-9 is a PCI Express x1 sound card built around an ESS 9038Q2M DAC and the Sound Core3D audio processor. It delivers 32-bit 384 KHz playback with a 129dB signal-to-noise ratio. The package includes a removable Audio Control Module that connects via a dedicated ACM Link port and requires a 6-pin PCIe power connector. The card targets enthusiasts and gamers who want high-fidelity audio on a desktop PC.

Passive main card with powered external module

The main circuit board measures 0.87" x 7.01" x 5.00" and draws no auxiliary power itself. All amplification for the headphone output is handled by the external Audio Control Module, which measures 2.56" x 5.90" x 5.04" and requires the 6-pin PCIe power connection. This separation keeps electrical noise away from the sensitive DAC section. The system requires a power supply rated at 500 W with 80Plus Bronze certification and two 6-pin PCIe connectors.

Upgrade from integrated audio or basic sound cards

This card replaces motherboard-integrated audio or entry-level PCIe sound cards that lack a dedicated external DAC and headphone amplifier. The jump is worthwhile for users who need 5.1 analogue surround plus 7.1 virtual surround, optical S/PDIF input and output, and a high-quality bi-amp headphone output with a physical volume control. It is not for buyers who need more than 5.1 analogue channels, internal-only installation, or support for operating systems beyond Windows 7 through 10.

How it compares

Measured against everything we stock in Internal & USB Sound Cards, at today’s prices. Recalculated every night.

Price $344.99
Pricier than about 99% of the 185 comparable items (median $29.99).

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Specifications

Product
Brand nameCreative
Product lineSound Blaster
Model nameAE-9
Part type or number70SB178000000
Audio & video
Audio chipSound Core3D
Audio channels5.1 surround channels, and up to 7.1 virtual surround channels
Ports & slots
Interface typePCI Express x1
Digital audio output32-bit
Extra ports1 x ACM Link
1 × 6-pin PCI Express (PCI-e) Power Header (required for ACM)
2 x RCA (L/R) Front Out
Size & build
Product dimensionsMain Card: 0.87 in × 7.01 in × 5 in
Audio Control Module (ACM): 2.56 in × 5.9 in × 5.04 in
Product weightMain Card: 0.51 lb
Audio Control Module (ACM): 1.06 lb
Shipping weight1.28 kg
Package size211 × 191 × 114 mm
Compatibility
Supported operating systemsMicrosoft Windows 10 32 / 64 bit, Windows 8.1/8.0 32 / 64 bit, Windows 7 32 / 64 bit
In the box
In the boxSound Blaster AE-9 (main card)
Audio Control Module
Quick Start Leaflet
Warranty Leaflets
2 x Stereo to RCA cables
1 x Optical TOSLINK cable
More details
Sample rate384 kHz
SNR129 dB
EncodeDTS Connect Encoding
Line out1 × 1/8 in Rear Out
1 × 1/8 in Center / Sub Out
SPDIF in1 x TOSLINK Optical In
SPDIF out1 x TOSLINK Optical Out
Remote controllerYes

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Questions about this item

How do I install the Sound Blaster AE-9 and its Audio Control Module, and what step is commonly missed?

Insert the PCIe x1 card into a free slot, connect the 6-pin PCIe power header on the card to the PSU, link the ACM via the ACM Link cable, then install Windows drivers; the step often missed is plugging the 6-pin power connector, which the ACM requires to function.

What maintenance or replacement will the AE-9 need over time?

The card has no user-serviceable parts; long-term care is limited to keeping the PCIe slot and ACM connectors dust-free, updating Windows drivers when Creative releases them, and verifying the 6-pin power cable stays firmly seated after system moves.

What limit appears first during sustained high-resolution playback on the AE-9?

The 32-bit 384 kHz DAC ceiling and 129 dB SNR define the fidelity floor; under continuous load the practical limit is the host PC's ability to feed gapless 384 kHz streams without buffer underruns, not the Sound Core3D chip itself.

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