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    5.1 surround sound, usb soundcards, and a laptop

    Discussion in 'Hardware Components and Aftermarket Upgrades' started by Thraken, Aug 17, 2007.

  1. Thraken

    Thraken Notebook Enthusiast

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    Hi,

    I'm looking at getting this 5.1 speaker set, but I've heard conflicting things about connections. I've read somewhere that the S/PDIF port on my Asus F3Sv-x1 laptop can support 5.1, is that true? If so, which cable(s) do I need? Is it the coaxial cable? Will sound quality be just as good as using the center/sub, rear, and front cables?

    If that isn't possible, then I guess I'll have to get a usb sound card. Any thoughts on this model from creative?

    Thanks
     
    Thraken, Aug 17, 2007
    #1
  2. fabarati

    fabarati Frorum Obfuscator

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    It can't support 5.1 analog (three stero plugs). Using a optical cable (s/pdif) will work.
     
    fabarati, Aug 17, 2007
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  3. star882

    star882 Notebook Evangelist

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    Look for some speakers that use a digital amplifier. At high power levels, analog amplifiers are very inefficient.
     
    star882, Aug 17, 2007
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  4. Wiz33

    Wiz33 Notebook Deity

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    All you need is a 3.5mm to toshlink optical cable and you can get 5.1 from the laptop to the Z5500. Look here:

    Monoprice
     
    Wiz33, Aug 17, 2007
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  5. Thraken

    Thraken Notebook Enthusiast

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    Thanks fab, that definitely answers my question. I'm still a little confused on what cable I actually need though. The s/pdif output jack on my laptop is a 1/4' regular audio jack. Coax cables and the connector on the speaker system are different though.

    Will this cable connect the coax jack on the speaker system to the 1/4' s/pdif jack on my laptop?

    Thanks

    Edit: thats the one! Thanks a lot Wiz!
     
    Thraken, Aug 17, 2007
    #5
  6. fabarati

    fabarati Frorum Obfuscator

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    That gives you stereo. You'll need what wiz33 said and linked to.
     
    fabarati, Aug 17, 2007
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