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First time 5.1 -7.1 PC audio setup

B

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Limp Gawd
Joined
May 23, 2011
Messages
332
So i will take a leap from my 2.1 Logitechs to a full 5.1-7.1 setup.
I have this reciever
http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/PUSA/Home/AV-Receivers/Pioneer+Receivers/VSX-516-K|S

This is my MoBo
http://www.gigabyte.com/products/product-page.aspx?pid=3534#sp

I plan to purchase these speakers. I have older Koss ones but it's time for new ones and i need a sub anyway since i need an active once.
http://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-HD-300-Definition-Theater/dp/B001XURGSK

My question is, should i stick to that mobo connected via optical S/PDIF, my reciever ahs it as well. Or go sound card?

I do EVERYTHING entertainment on my PC. I watch HD movies, Hulu/stream TV, game, music, etc etc.

Thanks guys, open to any other speaker recommendations too. Budget is about $300 just for speakers. I have the receiver already and MoBo obviously. I plan to get the Optical cable ASAP.
 
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Ok guys, i have my Optical cable into my Pioneer receiver, MoBo to unit. I am gettgin no sound from my speakers through the receiver.
Any ideas? I was reading Realtek may not support 5.1, but i should be getting somethign i would think.
 
Try a standalone DVD player first. If it works with the DVD player, then you know its an issue with the computer. If it doesn't work with the DVD player, its an issue with the receiver.

Post your audio config (control panel). Take a screen shot.
 
I seem to have it going now. I DLed the newest Realtek driver, it opened an HD option. I selected the Optical as my main device, and i can still switch to reg speakers if i want.
Now i just have to decide what new speakers to buy soon. I am using not so great ones and they sound a bit scratchy.
 
if you want your games to be in 5.1 you need to use analog outs from the motherboard. your reciever doesnt support more than 5.1 on analog.
 
Procyon12 said:
if you want your games to be in 5.1 you need to use analog outs from the motherboard. your reciever doesnt support more than 5.1 on analog.
Click to expand...

Actually, the Realtek chip on his Mobo (I actually had one; it's pretty nice) has DD Live/DTS Connect - but software support for it is optional. A tab for the option should be in the Realtek HD Audio Manager if it is supported; if it's not then you're probably out of luck.

Also, to the OP: I can't help but think that you may get better sound from three pairs of Dayton B652 bookshelf speakers and a subwoofer with the remaining money...
 
I would like to stick to small speakers since i will be in an apt. for a year and would like to wall mount. I could go around $300-$350 for them.
The receiver i have has supported 5.1 on all my previous applications. I used to have my TV connected to the TV/Sat ports (Only L/R red/white) from the TV using a splitter 3.5 jack and i expanded the TV audio on ALL channels and commercials to 5.1.

The Mobo seems to support 5.1 based on this image of settings via Realtek.


Uploaded with ImageShack.us

EDIT: In the above smalelr window, the optical out is not active(green bar) since i am using my 2.1 Logitechs right now.
I will have to try to set up all my speakers today, as i only setup a couple yesterday i know bad idea, but i don't have room currently for the setup and i am only home for 3 months. My 2.1 Logitechs work fine for that.

Thanks again and let me know some more ideas or if I'm on the wrong path.
 
room will only be 10'x14' about. I know it's small for surround but i plan to keep them with me for a long time. I used 5.1 in my 10'x10' bedroom since i was 18. Is it excessive...yes, do i love it...YES.

Those Pioneers look great, i think for a bit more on price, 5.1, and matching brand i could go for them. I actually like the massive size, plus CNET has good reviews on them. I just can't find the specs, hoping they do meet required specs for the receiver.
I suppose it is down to those, and the Klipsch HD500 series.
 
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wow that looks like a pretty decent deal. I have the energy take 5 classics and not only do they sound great, but they are high on the wife approval factor.
 
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