Creative SB1390 (SBX 10) User manual

User’s Guide
Model No.: SB1390 (SBX 10) / SB1360 (SBX 20)

Getting Started
Thank you for choosing Creative Sound BlasterAxx, the next generation Sound Blaster®that
incorporates the powerful SB-Axx1 sound and voice processor. It is equipped with speaker and
microphone functions for both listening and conferencing capabilities. The SBX 10 / SBX 20 (SB1390 /
SB1360) model design provides portability and low power consumption without compromising your
audio pleasure.
The SBX 10 / SBX 20 comprises both right and left drivers within a single tower structure. This system is
equipped with the following features:
lPortable form makes it ideal for laptop usage
lHigh quality audio
lSeamless support for various operating systems including Windows®8, Windows 7, Windows
Vista®and Mac®OS.
lPower efficient and environmentally friendly with its low power amplifier technology
lSpecialized software for different speaker enhancements and configurations
lSBX Pro Studio audio enhancements
lBuilt-in stereo microphones with CrystalVoice technology
lBuilt-in Bluetooth®Transceiver
Package Checklist
Your Sound BlasterAxx SBX 10 / SBX 20 package comes with the following components
lThe Sound BlasterAxx SBX 10 / SBX 20 tower
lMicroUSB cable
System Requirements
lIntel Core™2 Duo processor 2.2 GHz, AMD Athlon 64x2 Dual Core or equivalent processor
lMicrosoft®Windows 8 64-bit, Windows 8 32-bit, OR
Microsoft Windows 7 64-bit, Windows 7 32-bit, OR
Microsoft Windows Vista 64-bit, Windows Vista 32-bit, OR
Macintosh OS 10.5 and above
lPowered USB 2.0 port
Registering Your Product
Registering your product ensures you receive the most appropriate service and product support
available. You can register your product during installation or at www.creative.com/register. Please
note that your warranty rights are not dependent on registration.

More Help
For the latest news and products for the Sound Blaster, please visit www.soundblaster.com. The site
also includes information on making purchases, technical help and the latest software updates.
Using Creative Software AutoUpdate
Locating, downloading and installing updates for your Creative products is now simpler and faster with
the web-based Creative Software AutoUpdate system.
When you connect to Creative Software AutoUpdate via the Internet, the website will analyze your
computer system to determine your operating system, language and which Creative products are
connected to your system.
When this analysis is completed, you will then be given a list of only the most relevant software updates
for your connected products. The files can then be retrieved and installed.
To learn more about the Creative Software AutoUpdate, please visit www.soundblaster.com/support.
Note:
First-time users of Creative Software AutoUpdate may be prompted to authorize the download of a
browser component required for system analysis. Check to ensure that this content is signed by
Creative Labs, Inc., then click the Yes button.
Please ensure that all your Creative products are connected and installed on the same computer
running Creative Software AutoUpdate.

Understanding Your Sound BlasterAxx
The SBX 10 / SBX 20 is equipped with a variety of input and output jacks to enable connection to various
devices. A touchscreen interface located at the top of the Sound BlasterAxx gives you basic control over
the system's functions. This chapter looks at these features in detail.
The Sound BlasterAxx Tower
Jack Description
1LED Button A white LED indicates that the Sound BlasterAxx is
on. The Sound BlasterAxx is automatically powered
on when a valid power source is connected to it.
Power sources include:
lPC / Laptop via the microUSB cable
lPower socket connected to the USB Power
Adapter (available separately)
lUSBbattery pack (not included)
A blue LED indicates that the Sound BlasterAxx is
connected with a Bluetooth enabled device.
2Base The SBX 20 comes with a base packed separately
in the box.
lAttach the base onto the bottom of the Sound
BlasterAxx and tighten it gently by screwing it
clockwise.
lTo detach the base, screw it counterclockwise
and remove it from the Sound BlasterAxx.
Note: Only available for the SBX 20 model.

Connectivity - Input / Output Jacks
Jack Description
1Connect
Button
A blue LED indicates that the Sound BlasterAxx is
connected with a Bluetooth enabled device.
lEnsure the Sound BlasterAxx is powered on.
lPress and hold Connect button for 4 seconds to
enter pairing mode.
lTurn on Bluetooth feature on your device.
lSearch and select Sound BlasterAxx SBX 20 or
Sound BlasterAxx SBX 10. If password is
required, enter 0000 and connect to it.
Note: Enable the "Bluetooth Auto Connect" feature
to connect to a paired Bluetooth device
automatically when the Sound BlasterAxx is turned
on. Refer to Advanced Feature for details.
2MicroUSB Connects to USB ports of PC / laptop for audio
output.
3Headphone Connects to stereo headphones with a 3.50mm
(1/8-inch) plug.
4Aux / Mic In Connects to line-level sources (such as MP3
players) or microphones with a 3.50mm (1/8-inch)
plug. You can manually switch between AUX and
MICinputs via the Control Panel >Sound
interface.

TouchScreenControls
Toggle/Slider Description
1Voice Focus Toggles the Voice Focus functionON/OFF. Voice
Focus is ONwhen the LED is lighted and
dimmedotherwise.
2Noise Reduction Toggles the Noise Reduction function ON/OFF.
Noise Reduction is ON when the LED is lighted
and dimmed otherwise.
3Master Volume 9 segment slider indicates the speaker volume.
Slide upwards to increase the volume or slide
downwards to decrease the volume.
4SBX Toggles SBX Pro Studio audio enhancements
ON/OFF. The SBX Pro Studio is ON when the
LED is lighted and dimmedotherwise.
5Speaker Mute Indicates whether the speaker is muted. A red
LED indicates mute while a white LED indicates
otherwise.
6Microphone Mute Indicates whether the inbuilt microphone is
muted. A red LED indicates mute while a white
LED indicates otherwise.
7Call Button Toggles the Call function ON/OFF. Call is ON
when the LEDis lighted and dimmedotherwise.
Press to pick up call or to activate voice
command.
Note: LEDblink for phone ringing when it is
connected via Bluetooth.

Setting Up Your Sound BlasterAxx
The SBX 10 / SBX 20 is a new system with low power amplifier technology that enables the Sound
BlasterAxx to run on USB power while delivering performance which was previously possible only with
AC power. You can either connect the SBX 10 / SBX 20 to a computer via the USBor by connecting it to
the power supply, i.e. standalone mode.
Connecting to a Computer
Setting the default audio device (for Mac OS only)
(i) Go to System Preferences and click Sound.
(ii) Click the Output tab, then select Sound BlasterAxx SBX 10 or Sound BlasterAxx SBX 20.
(iii) Click the Input tab, then select Sound BlasterAxx SBX 10 or Sound BlasterAxx SBX 20.
OR

Connecting to a Power Supply
Note:
USB Power Adapter available separately.

Using Your Sound BlasterAxx
Whether you wish to listen to your favorite tracks from MP3 players, experience realistic audio while
playing games on your PC and game consoles or receive clear voice and audio outputs during video /
audio conferencing without the hassle of an additional microphone or headset, your SBX 10 / SBX 20
provides the ideal solution.
Various scenarios where the Sound BlasterAxx can be used include:
lConnecting the Sound BlasterAxx For Audio Entertainment
Connect your Sound BlasterAxx to your computer via USB or to other portable entertainment
devices including MP3 players, mobile phones etc. via the AUX IN jack and enjoy clear audio quality.
You may also connect the Sound BlasterAxx to various Bluetooth enabled devices via Bluetooth for
group conferencing or music playback.
lConnecting the Sound BlasterAxx for Video / Audio Conferencing, Karaoke and Recording
The built-in microphone along with CrystalVoice technology provides a truly hands-free solution to
video / audio conferencing via the web. The "What You Hear" application further allows you to mix
the microphone input and the currently playing track or video with instant playback, creating a
Karaoke-type system on your computer. You may even record your Voice over IP (VoIP) calls and
internet telephony conversations.
lConnecting Headphones / Headsets
If required, headphones and headsets can be connected to the Sound BlasterAxx's headphone jack.
Connecting the Sound BlasterAxx For Audio Entertainment
The SBX 10 / SBX 20 is equipped with a MicroUSB jack, an Aux In jack, and a build-in Bluetooth
transceiver for connection to a wide array of devices. This section illustrates the connection.
Note:
The SBX 10 / SBX 20 must either be connected to a computer, a wall socket using a USB Power
Adapter (available separately) or an external USB battery pack (not included) for power.
PC / Mac

MP3 Players / CD Players and Other Portable Entertainment Devices
y
Bluetooth Enabled Devices

Connecting the Sound BlasterAxx for Video/Audio Conferencing,
Karaoke and Recording
Video / Audio conferencing via the various messaging applications available in the market is made
simpler with the SBX 10 / SBX 20's built-in stereo microphones. Equipped with configurable CrystalVoice
technology, the Sound BlasterAxx, coupled with its microphone, delivers crystal clear voice and audio
reception during conferencing.
The Sound BlasterAxx is also equipped with a "What You Hear" feature, allowing you to turn your
computer into a Karaoke station. Simply speak / sing into the Sound BlasterAxx to mix your voice input
with music tracks, hearing the playback while recording.
You can also record voice conversations held over instant messaging tools such as Google Talk, Skype
etc. using the "Wave/Aux/Mic Mix" feature installed via the Creative driver.
Note:
This feature is only available in the Windows environment.
To use this feature, simply follow the steps below:
1. Install the Creative Driver included in the software bundle for your product. Please refer to Using
the Software for installation instructions.
2. From the Start menu, navigate to the Windows Control Panel and view Sound settings.
3. In the Sound dialog window, select the Recording tab. From the list of devices connected to your
PC, right-click the Wave/Aux/Mic Mix device and select Set as Default Device.
4. Activate your IM voice conversation.
5. Launch a third-party sound recording tool of your choice and start recording the conversation.
Note:
The SBX 20 can be placed behind a 13-inch or a smaller notebook.

Connecting Headphones / Headsets
Headphones and headsets can be connected to the Sound BlasterAxx via the Headphone jack. Please
note that the Sound BlasterAxx's speaker will be automatically muted when a headphone is connected.

Using the Software
A specialized software for the Sound BlasterAxx is developed to provide additional enhancements to the
audio and voice inputs and outputs of the product. The software bundle supports a range of operating
systems including:
lWindows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista
lMac
To take full advantage of your Sound BlasterAxx, we recommend downloading and installing this
software into your computer.
Note:
Some applications are available only for certain operating systems. To learn more about each
application, please consult its respective Online Help.
Depending on your model and software version, the color theme of the user interface may differ.
Installation and Uninstallation - Windows
For Windows OS, the following applications are included in the software bundle:
lSound BlasterAxx Control Panel
lCreative SoftwareAutoUpdate
lCreative System Information
lProduct Registration
lCreative ALchemy
lHost OpenAL
lCreative Driver
You can also download the following bonus applications from www.creative.com/support:
lCreative WaveStudio
lCreative Media Toolbox
Installing
Note:
Please ensure that your product is connected to the computer running the installation.
1. Using a standard web browser, visit www.creative.com/support and locate the software package for
the Windows operating system.
2. Download this package into your local hard disk.
3. Locate and launch the software package.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
5. When prompted, restart your computer.
6. Launch the application by clicking Start >Programs or All Programs >Creative >Sound
BlasterAxx >Sound BlasterAxx Control Panel

This software includes a number of configurations that help you control the basic functions of your
Sound BlasterAxx plus several software enhancement configurations that can be made to heighten your
Sound BlasterAxx's performance. The menu column on the left of the interface allows you to navigate to
the configuration interface for each of these enhancements.
Uninstalling
In the event that an uninstallation is required (such as for upgrades), please follow the following
procedure.
1. Click Start > Control Panel > Uninstall a program
2. Select the Sound BlasterAxx entry.
3. Click the Uninstall button.
If the User Account Control dialog box appears, click the Continue button.
4. Click the Yes button.
5. When prompted, restart your computer.

Installation and Uninstallation - Mac
For Mac OS, the following applications are included in the software bundle:
lSound BlasterAxx Control Panel
lProduct Registration
lCreative Uninstaller
Installing
Note:
Please ensure that your product is connected to the computer running the installation.
1. Using your web browser, visit www.creative.com/support and locate the software package for the
Mac OS.
2. Download this package into your local hard disk.
3. Double-click the downloaded file to uncompress it.
4. Double-click the uncompressed DMG file.
5. Double-click the Install icon and follow the subsequent on-screen instructions to complete the
installation.
6. Launch the Sound BlasterAxx Control Panel from the Applications > Creative > Sound
BlasterAxx folder.
This software includes a number of configurations that help you control the basic functions of your
Sound BlasterAxx plus several software enhancement configurations that can be made to heighten your
Sound BlasterAxx's performance. The menu column on the left of the interface allows you to navigate to
the configuration interface for each of these enhancements.
Uninstalling
In the event that an uninstallation is required (such as for upgrades), please follow the following
procedure.
1. Click Applications > Creative >Creative Uninstaller
2. Select the Creative product to be uninstalled.
3. Click the Uninstall button.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Using the Sound BlasterAxx Control Panel
The rest of this chapter explains how to use the Sound BlasterAxx Control Panel to view and adjust the
various features of your Sound BlasterAxx product. The examples and screenshots below uses Windows
as an example. The UI for other operating systems may differ slightly.
Managing Your Profiles
The Sound BlasterAxx Control Panel comes equipped with a set of pre-configured profiles to suit your
different needs including gaming, movies/videos, music, etc. To activate a profile,
1. From the left menu, select "Speaker Settings" for pre-set audio profiles or "Microphone
Settings" for voice profiles.
2. Select the profile you wish to use.
Modifying Profile Settings
You can also modify the pre-configured settings of each profile.
1. Select a profile to apply it to your SBX 10 / SBX 20.
2. Select "Speaker Settings > SBX Pro Studio" and / or "Speaker Settings >Equalizer" to edit
the configuration of the currently selected speaker profile.
3. Select "Microphone Settings >CrystalVoice" to edit the currently selected microphone profile.
4. Return to the profile interface. All changes made in steps 2 and 3 will be reflected here.
5. Click [Save] to save your changes or click [Reset] to return the profile to its pre-configured
settings.

Adjusting Speaker Volume Via Software
A master volume slider is available at the bottom left corner of the
interface. Drag the slider to adjust the master volume. You can also
mute / unmute the speaker by clicking the speaker icon to the left of
the slider.
Mixer Settings
A mixer is also available via the software, allowing you to adjust the volume levels of individual outputs
and channels including the microphone, speakers, etc. Simply click the "Mixer" option on the menu and
adjust the volumes using the sliders.

Enhancing the Audio - SBX Pro Studio
SBX Pro Studio enhances the audio output of your Sound BlasterAxx using software optimizations. To
configure SBX Pro Studio, click the "SBX Pro Studio" menu option on the left.
Follow the steps below to toggle on SBX Pro Studio and adjust the level of enhancements.
1. Click the power button to toggle ON SBX Pro Studio.
2. Select the type(s) of enhancements to apply and drag the sliders to adjust the level for each
enhancement.
3. Click the play button to test the audio output, if necessary.
Note:
You can also toggle SBX Pro Studio ON via the physical touchscreen of the Sound BlasterAxx.
Enhancement adjustments can only be made via the software.
SBX Pro Studio includes a number of enhancements for movies and gaming, elevating your movie and
gaming experience to the next level. These include:
lSBX Surround - provides immersion control to enhance the natural sense of audio depth and
spaciousness by creating virtual surround sound channels. Stereo content or multichannel content
will sound as if its coming from all sides while voices remain centered in front and original balance
and timbre is preserved.
lSBX Crystalizer - restores the natural dynamic range that is lost when music files (iTunes and
MP3) gets compressed. This makes the music sound as good as the artist originally intended, and
adds an enhanced level of realism for movies and games.
lSBX Bass - fills in the missing low frequency tones and gives the extra impact for a better
entertainment experience. Consumers no longer have to tolerate a lack of bass in speakers as the
SBX Pro Studio Bass technology dramatically improves the sound experience even in the absence of
a subwoofer.
lSBX Smart Volume - addresses the problem of abrupt volume level changes during playback and
between songs by continously measuring volume automatically, applying gain and attenuation
intelligently to compensate for any changes.
lSBX Dialog Plus - enhances the voices in movies for clearer dialog, allowing the listener to hear
the dialog over the rest of the soundtrack and over ambient noise in the listening environment.

Enhancing the Microphone - CrystalVoice
The SBX 10 / SBX 20 is equipped with built-in stereo microphones, allowing you to easily carry out
video/audio conferencing using popular VoIP applications such as Ventrilo®etc. CrystalVoice
enhancements help to further this experience by enhancing the clarity of such communications.
To configure CrystalVoice settings, Click the "CrystalVoice" menu option on the left.
1. Click the power button to turn on CrystalVoice.
2. Select the SBX 10 / SBX 20 as your recording device, adjusting the microphone volume using the
slider.
3. Select the desired enhancements to turn on and adjust the settings according to your needs.
4. Click [Test] and speak into your Sound BlasterAxx to hear your voice recorded based on the
configured settings. Readjust if necessary.
CrystalVoice enhancements helps you hear and be heard clearly by all participants of the conference,
doing away with noisy background distortions and unclear communication that disrupts your online
gaming and chatting experience. The various enhancements available include:
CrystalVoice Acoustic Echo Cancellation - eliminates echoes and enables the speaker to listen to
the other parties clearly. Echoes are a common problem present in voice communication systems that
disrupts conversations by making it difficult to hear the other party.
CrystalVoice Noise Reduction - enables the speaker to be heard clearly over background noise by
constantly monitoring the environment and eliminating unwanted noise that interferes with the
conversation.
CrystalVoice Smart Volume - automatically adjusts the loudness of a voice to maintain a consistent
volume level. This makes it convenient for the speaker to converse normally, regardless of his distance
from the microphone.
CrystalVoice FX™ - enables the alteration of voice with a variety of effects which can be used to
enhance the tone of a voice, create interesting accents or even allow someone to sound like a
completely different person.
CrystalVoice Focus - creates a zone and suppresses noise outside it to enable the speaker within to
be heard with amazing clarity. Multiple microphones are used to focus, enhance the speaker’s voice,
and eliminate sounds outside the zone.

View Speakers / Headphones Settings
Each SBX 10 / SBX 20 is equipped with a headphone jack, allowing you to connect your favorite
headphones to the Sound BlasterAxx for audio output. Connecting headphones to the Sound BlasterAxx
automatically mutes the speaker. From the software, you can check whether audio is played via
speakers or headphones.
1. View the current settings for the speakers / headphones.
2. Click [Test] to hear a sample audio clip played back based on the settings.