Creative Technology, a maker of various digital audio devices, and Analog Devices, a well-known supplier of semiconductors for signal processing applications and integrated audio codecs for host audio in PCs, today announced an agreement that allows Creative to provide PC users with a simple and probably cost-effective upgrade from host audio to a Sound Blaster audio card.

Under the agreement, Creative will market a Sound Blaster-enhanced audio upgrade to Analog Devices’ integrated audio. This will allow end users to enjoy the Sound Blaster experience on products from many PC OEMs and mainboard manufacturers who use audio chips from Analog Devices. This experience includes state-of-the-art audio such as voice-enabled applications, enhanced music experiences, home theatre-quality DVD movies, and next-generation game audio.

“This is an important expansion for integrated audio features since the up-sell model for upgrades and accessories today drives the retail and direct-order PC channels with the profit opportunities often exceeding those of the PC itself,” said John Croteau, general manager, Media Platforms and Services Group, Analog Devices.

In addition to providing an upgrade to Analog Devices’ large customer base, Creative will market a complete family of audio accessories directly to end users. The Creative upgrade solutions and accessories are slated for availability in the fall of 2004.