Creative, the company renowned for revolutionizing PC audio in the ’90s with its Sound Blaster sound cards, is breathing new life into the brand with an innovative hub known as the Re:Imagine. This device shares a resemblance with Elgato’s Stream Deck controllers but is specifically tailored for enhancing audio equipment. Its modular design offers flexibility, allowing you to customize buttons, dials, sliders, and screens to suit your individual preferences.

To bring this project to life, Creative has initiated a Kickstarter campaign, with plans to start deliveries as early as June 2026. The pricing for this intriguing kit begins at $500, which includes a horizontal base unit accompanied by touchscreen, button, dial, and slider modules. Early supporters on Kickstarter can snag it for a special price of $329 for a limited period.

The Re:Imagine boasts a comprehensive range of connectivity options, featuring USB-C, microphone, line, and optical input connections, alongside a 3.5mm headphone jack. It also has a dedicated USB port for PC connectivity and supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth for seamless integration with wireless devices like headphones. Equipped with an internal DAC and amplifier, Creative claims it can drive larger studio-quality desktop speakers. The hub’s buttons and touchscreen allow you to effortlessly redirect audio between devices, eliminating the hassle of cable management, while offering a myriad of additional features.

When linked to a PC, the hub’s controls are highly adaptable, enabling users to launch applications, initiate shortcuts such as muting calls, or even execute programmable macros. It can also manage Matter-enabled smart home devices. Running on Linux, Creative provides full root access to its hardware, inviting developers to craft their own applications or explore alternative uses for the hub.

Not just reliant on a PC, the Re:Imagine is powered by a robust octa-core processor, complemented by 8GB of RAM and 16GB of storage, which is expandable via a microSD card. It operates apps on its 3-inch touchscreen and features a DOS emulator for experiencing nostalgic games, along with AI-driven assistants and an AI DJ that curates music based on your chosen theme.