Creative Technology today announced its new ultra high-performance Z-Series of Sound Blaster PCI-Express sound cards namely the Sound Blaster ZxR, Sound Blaster Zx and Sound Blaster Z. These sound cards are equipped with Creative’s Core3D quad-core sound and voice processor. The Creative ZxR features external digital-to-analog converters (DACs) that deliver 127dB signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), sockets for swappable Op-Amps, a high-end 80mW into 600 ohm headphone amplifier, and 192kHz pass through. The Sound Blaster Zx incorporates all the hardware and software features of the Sound Blaster ZxR except for the DBpro daughter board. The Sound Blaster Z is equipped with all the hardware and software features of the Sound Blaster Zx except for the ACM. The Creative Sound Blaster ZxR, Sound Blaster Zx and Sound Blaster Z are priced at $249.99, $149.99 and $99.99, respectively. [Engadget]