Smooth ride...
Written: Feb 14 '01
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Very smooth display in high end games and applications
Cons: A little tricky to get going
The Bottom Line: If you're a gamer, and you want the best graphics available, go for this one. This can handle anything.
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| Draggar's Full Review: Creative Labs 3D Blaster Annihilator |
After doing a few weeks of research of the latest graphics cards, I decided to go with the Creative Labs Anihilator. I'll admit, it was over my price range (by about $100) but I have NEVER had a problem with any Creative Labs produce (and the few that I did had simple fixes).
I own many other products from Creative Labs, and I've noticed that their tech support / customer service is also one of the best in the computer industry.
I ordered the card online, and recieved it in a few days (I paid for the fast delivery, I wanted it NOW!), and I had it up and running in less than 30 minutes.
Physically placing in the card is simple, and with AGP cards, you have to make sure that it is in the slot 100%, or you can have problems with a simple fix, but can make your stomache turn). As for the driver issue, I went to www.windrivers.com and located the latest Detonator drivers for the card and installed them. Even that went on without any problems.
I've since moved my display up to 32bit (from 16 bit) and I haven't noticed any system slow downs (yet), and I can push my resolution all the way up to 2048X1576. Until I get a nice 21 inch monitor or higher, I'll stick where I am. ;-)
I'll admit, I bought this for games. Of course, who doesn't? I had some games that I bought but couldn't play due to my RivaTNT card not being able to handle the graphics (Mainly Carmageddon 3), after I put in this, I set the game up to use the most graphics possible, and it runs about as smooth as real life. And the other games? They ran better than ever.
If you're looking for a good card, I'd say go for this one (unless you have $400 to spend, then go with the PRO). Installation is easy, usage is easy. Creative Labs has never come out with any type of lemon, and I've been loyal to them since they started the Soundblaster! Card (the origonal!). Customer Service and tech support are great.
Why wouldn't anyone go with them? They set the standard with multimedia (as you see everything now is "Soundblaster Compatable").
Just a word of advice, if you don't already have at LEAST a 17 inch monitor, go out and buy one. I don't think you'll get the same effect with a small 15 inch monitor. (But thats just a different suggestion).
Happy gaming!
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 250
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Epinions.com ID: Draggar
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Member: Ed Blood
Location: North Lauderdale, FL
Reviews written: 101
Trusted by: 7 members
About Me: I enjoy checking out new "toys". Especially in the computer and electronics fields.
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