Alex,
Thanks for CREAF comments, especially mentioning MSFT threat. On some of the "techie" boards and newgroups there is what I perceive to be a credible threat the Intel will move sound processing into the CPU or motherboard. Similar concerns exist regarding graphics cards, many of which are trading at low multiples, like Trident or SIII.
I think the Environmental Audio in the "Live" card is a technology that Creative will control for now, and it seems that entertainment developers will utilize. I think optimal use of the Environmental Audio can be programmed into software titles, leading me to believe this is proprietary in nature, although other cards may offer similar compatibility (ala AMD to INTC).
As you can tell, I'm not "up" on the technology, but on the audio newsgroups the concensus is that the card coupled with the 3-D speakers produces a great effect, and if you want it, buy a "Live" card. (There is a competing 3D audio chip from Aureal, so CREAF is not alone here, but I get feeling developers will follow CREAF).
Again, appreciate the comments.
Shane |
