difference between play 2 and play 3?

The Sound Blaster Play 2 has a Bit-depth/sampling frequency (playback) of Up to 16-bit/48KHz. Sound Blaster Play 3 has a Bit-depth/sampling frequency of 16-bit/44.1, 48.0, 88.2, 96.0kHz and 24-bit/44.1, 48.0, 96.0kHz" As for the Signal-to-Noise Ratio, the Sound Blaster Play 2 has 90dB (playback), while the Sound Blaster Play 3 has 93dB. Also, the Sound Blaster Play 2 has a single jack for Headphone / Speaker out cum Mic In 1 x 3.5mm jack While the Sound Blaster Play 3 has a separate jack for Headphone-out and Mic-in. - One 3.5mm (1/8-inch) 4-pole Headphone-out with Mic jack - One 3.5mm (1/8-inch) Microphone-in jack (Mono)

Does it make a popping sound if there's a USB power spike?

Under normal working conditions, when using the Sound Blaster Play! 3, there are no reported issues regarding popping sounds deriving from power spikes. For more detailed information, please contact Creative Customer Support.

Would there be any issues with using 2 of these? One for my headphones, and one for my desktop speakers?

I use the built-in sound card for speakers, and the SB Play!3 for headphones and microphone, so there is no problem with using two sound cards at the same time. As long as your OS and your music application recognizes the two devices as distinct, there should be no issues.

Will this make my Modmic 4.0 sound louder? I currently use my Realtek onboard audio and the volume on my mic is extremely low even with boost up.

Yes, this is a known problem with the Realtek audio. Also avoid dongles which use the Realtek ADC. I'm guessing that this DAC/ADC does not use the Realtek chipset, although given its price maybe it does but Creative Labs has addressed the issues (which I am told are with the drivers, not the hardware).

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🎧 Elevate Your Audio Game—Because Your Ears Deserve the Best

HI RES AUDIO UPGRADE - Transform your PC/Mac sound with crystal-clear 24-bit/96kHz playback—hear every detail like never before.
EFFORTLESS PLUG PLAY - No drivers, no hassle—just plug in and instantly elevate your audio experience across Windows and Mac platforms.
COMPACT LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN - Sleek, portable, and weighing under 60g—perfect for professionals on the move who demand premium sound.
POWERFUL AUDIO CONTROL SUITE - Unlock advanced sound customization with downloadable software featuring optimized profiles for top headphone brands.
UNIVERSAL HEADPHONE COMPATIBILITY - Seamlessly connect any analog headset, from casual earbuds to pro-grade headphones, without extra adapters.

The Creative Labs Sound Blaster Play! 3 is a compact external USB sound adapter that upgrades your computer’s audio to high-resolution 24-bit/96kHz playback. Compatible with Windows and Mac, it requires no drivers for instant plug-and-play use. Supporting all analog headphones and featuring powerful downloadable software for audio customization, it’s the perfect tool for professionals seeking superior sound quality on the go.

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Brand	CREATIVE
Product Dimensions	13.8 x 2.2 x 0.94 cm; 59.53 g
Item model number	70SB173000000
Manufacturer	Creative
Series	sound blaster play 3
Colour	For Windows and Mac
Voltage	5 Volts
Wattage	1
Power Source	Corded Electric
Hardware Platform	Headphone, Personal Computer
Operating System	mac os x, windows 10
Are Batteries Included	No
Item Weight	59.4 g
Guaranteed software updates until	unknown

Creative Labs Sound Blaster Play! 3 External USB Sound Adapter for Windows and Mac. Plug and Play (No Drivers Required). Upgrade to 24-Bit 96Khz Playback

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