Express sound card thats support 5.1 with optical

Hi

I have recently bought a new hp 9667ea laptop and wish to connect it to my 5.1 surround sound through a optical cable. I recently purchased a creative x-fi xtreme audio sound card however found out that it only supports up to 2.1. I notice creative are bring one out which is 7.1.

My questions are does anyone know if it this will be compitable with my 5.1 speakers or does anyone no a way I can connect my laptop to my speakers using a optical cable.

Any help would be a appreciated

Many Thanks

Scott

 

http://us.creative.com/products/product.asp?category=1&subcategory=16&product=16741

Apparently this part lets you do it, no clue if it works though.

 

Hi

Thanks for you reply. Howver this does not allow you to connect it to a optical cable

 

Well I have a creative live! 24-bit USN external card that allows for optical and 5.1 sound. If that adapter doesn't let you do it then I guess the x-fi can't support it. The usb card was 50$ (well I got it on sale) ins tores but it is very hard to find sometimes. It seems to be randomly in stock in stores.

 

I don't think there is an expresscard 5.1 sound card with an optical out.

Here's the USB one mentioned above: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16829102174

 

Thanks

Do you think the new one creative are bring out that is 7.1 will support my 5.1 speakers.

 

Too bad creative makes crap products... that X-Fi should include 5.1 capability instead of having to make an additional purchase.