Bundled Software
The DigiFire is aimed at the video editing enthusiast, complete with FireWire ports for connecting digital imaging equipment. Hercules bundles PowerDirector Pro 2.5 ME program for video editing chores, along with PowerDVD Por EX to take advantage of the 7.1 capabilities of the DigiFire. Acid Xpress, Hercules Media Station II, and the Yamaha S-YXG50 MIDI Synthesizer complete the bundled software package. No games are included with the card, although I have never really been a fan of bundled software to begin with. The inclusion of the PowerDVD Pro EX and PowerDirector are enough to make most buyers happy.
Ratings
Highs
- Great compatibility for games (EAX, EAX 2.0, etc)
- Trick PCB
- FireWire ports
- 7.1 rocks
- PowerDVD Pro EX
- Solid drivers
- Excellent overall sound quality
- Inexpensive
Lows
- 6.1 and 7.1 speakers not mainstream yet
- Speakers need to be spread out to take full advantage of effects
Final Thoughts
Hercules never ceases to amaze me with their products. The DigiFire 7.1 is just another example of an outstanding product, that outperforms most of the competition, at a lesser price. For gamers looking for that ultimate sound card, without spending hundreds of dollars, Hercules has you covered. With full support for gaming audio, Dolby EX, and FireWire ports, the DigiFire is the a sound card that can do it all, for less than $100. Perhaps the only downside of this card is that in order to get the maximum performance, you’ll be running wires all over your computer room or office. Such is the price we pay to stay on the leading edge. As more companies release their own 6.1 and 7.1 speaker system, the DigiFire will be an even better investment, one step ahead of all the other guys on the block that only have 5.1 systems. With this combination of features and price, the DigiFire 7.1 earns our Editor’s Choice award as an excellent all-around card with excellent gaming and multi-media support.
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