5.1 on a notebook

Right now I have an Asus a8js, and I want to hook it up to my Logitech Z5300-e 5.1 speakers. The Logitechs have the traditional three cables for surround sound, and of course my notebook can only use the green one. What would be the best way to hook up the Asus to the 5.1 with full surround sound. I was looking at some USB sound cards, or maybe I can use something for the S/PDIF? Thanks guys.

 

You can't connect A8 with this cable cause it's analog and you have digital SPDIF which means you need 3 things :
1. toslink(optical) cable
2. converter to minijack
3. sound decoder (Creative DDTS-100)
Here you have some pictures : http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=55172&page=5

 

I just bought a Creative 2 NX card off EBay to hook in my A8Js.. it cost $90 but I've seen cheaper ones since that are refurbs with buyouts. It connects via USB and supports 5.1 or 7.1, the card is discountinued so you won't have much luck finding it anywhere but EBay. When you plug it in it takes over by itself from the internal soundcard, it's very slick.

If you aren't interested in 7.1 there is a 5.1 only version still in production you could pickup.

 

Thanks guys. Mastha, would a sound decoder like your Creative DDTS-100 work better than a USB sound card? Because reviews of USB sound cards have been mediocre. Not truly bad, but I would like the best quality for my money, and the decoder is a lot of money. And ITF, how's the quality of your card? Any noise, hiss/pops, etc.? And how's the sound separation?

 

I have the logitech Z5500 that I ordered along with a Creative Audigy 2 ZS notebook sound card. It slides into the PCMCIA slot and also comes with a cable that has all 3 connections for the speakers (orange, black, green...i think). The card is about 100 bucks, but the sound quality is amazing, and 5.1 is enabled. I think this card is the best way to enable 5.1 on a laptop.

I used to have an external USB sound card and the sound wasnt that great. I dont think a USB connection can compete with a PCMCIA connection. But I dont know much about that stuff but its just what I believe.

 

Does the logitech Z5500 sound as good as a real home theatre setup like a Onkyo or Sony?

I guess the Z5500 is not THX certified?

 

Yeah I want a ZS notebook soundcard, but my laptop has an Express card slot, not PCMCIA. Has anyone heard if Creative is making an updated version using Express?

 

The Z5500s are indeed THX Certified, and they sound incredible for the price. Do they sound as good as Onkyo or Sony? I would say...yes for smaller rooms like bedrooms or offices. I can't imagine using them in a living/family room setups, though.