Alienware M17x R3 Internal 5.1 Audio -- Still Need External Processor Like The Astro Mixamp?

Hello,

I have a new Alienware M17x R3 on order and have a question about the internal 5.1 audio feature. Does the internal sound card de-code 5.1 games so you get a surround effect when using a stereo headphone? Or, do you still need an external processor such as the Astro Mixamp and headphones to get the surround effect?
I tried a couple of gaming headphones at Best Buy (admittedly not the best place in the world) and was not thrilled with their overall audio quality.
After reading many reviews, it sounds like the Astro Mixamp, combined with a high quality stereo headset is a good combination for not only games, but movies and music as well. I am willing to sacrifice gaming surround imaging for better audio quality.
Your feedback is most welcome. Thanks!
Laptop should arrive in a couple of weeks -- can't wait! This is my first personal laptop in about ten years!

 

I can't say about the 5.1 sound since I don't own such a setup, but I'd imagine its possible with the onboard sound since we've got 3 audio outputs (the spdif works as analog audio as well).

I can give you some feedback on gaming headphones in general as well as the one I'm currently using. I'm using the Logitech G930 right now, and while I know its not audiophile quality (my audiophile friend mocked me ) its got pretty convincing surround sound for what it is. It uses USB so it skips the on board sound altogether and the wireless is immensely convenient. I am contemplating returning them though because the bass gets blown out with loud sounds and crackles; the only fix is to either lower the bass or use bass management which drastically lowers the volume of the bass. I figure its cause the wireless headphones can't supply enough power since its wired predecessor didn't have such an issue.

If you're willing to sacrifice surround sound for better overall quality it wouldn't be much of a loss. Surround on headphones merely seem directional but they don't come close to a real speaker setup because the speakers are right next to your ears. A solid pair of stereo headphones without surround sound is your best bet as far as audio quality goes. Surround headphones are a gaming gimmick (but an enjoyable one).

TL;DR

Audiophile stereo headphones have the best quality (skip on the surround), but gaming headsets may be more enjoyable for games (even if the surround isn't realistic).

 

It does 5.1 audio at times, when it wants.
Basically I've had a heck of a time getting 5.1 to work on my m17x. It will work for a couple days and then for no reason a channel will stop working. I'll have to unplug all the connections, plug them back in, restart the computer, and it may work. Basically the driver sucks, but it works at times.

 

Mixamp won't achieve what you are hoping with games. My understanding is it will only take a 5.1 surround source and do its magic on stereo headphones.

I tried the Earforce DSS (same product, basically) with the Optical out. It worked with DVDs, would not work with games, because games are not putting out... I dunno, the same kinda 5.1. Honestly, I am confused by the whole thing, but Turtle Beach support told me the DSS won't do what I am wanting it to to.

I currently have some support requests in regarding Creative Labs external sound card/ Software solutions for the CMSS-3D tech which supposedly does what I want.

Also, I tried the Logitech G35 set. Very nice positional audio, pretty good sound. In the end, I just wanted high grade headphones though and got some Audio Technicas.

So, I'll let you know what Creative suggests.