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    Computer speaker "levels?

    Discussion in 'Accessories' started by jj808, Nov 16, 2006.

  1. jj808

    jj808 Notebook Consultant

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    Someone please explain to me in small words what is the meaning of the 5 different computer speaker levels. There is 2.0, 2.1, 4.1, 5.1 and finally 7.1. What happened to 3.1 and 6.1? Why the .1? Someone help me out here.... :confused:
     
    jj808, Nov 16, 2006
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  2. John Ratsey

    John Ratsey Moderately inquisitive Super Moderator

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    The .1 is a woofer, so 2.1 is two speakers plus a woofer. You almost feel rather than hear the bass sounds, so one woofer is considered enough. The rest are normal speakers. The more there are then the greater the potential for surround sound, if you have a home cinema.

    Hope this helps,

    John
     
    John Ratsey, Nov 16, 2006
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  3. jj808

    jj808 Notebook Consultant

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    Yes it does.
     
    jj808, Nov 16, 2006
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  4. Balrog

    Balrog Notebook Consultant

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    The progression is basically:

    Front speakers (left and right): 2.0
    Add a subwoofer: 2.1
    Add rear speakers (l, r): 4.1
    Add a center channel: 5.1
    Add side speakers (l, r): 7.1

    Speakers up to 2.1 can be run off a single standard audio jack, so laptops are fine with that. Anything higher tends to need more outputs to drive the extra speakers, so usually a dedicated soundcard becomes necessary.
     
    Balrog, Nov 19, 2006
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