how do you set up a computer surround sound system?

Hi, I recently asked a question about setting up a home audio system for the TV, but it turns out that the system I have is meant for the computer, so I am wondering how to set them up for the computer.  Do i need this? 

http://www.google.com/products/catalog?q=computer+surround+sound+card&um=1&ie=UTF-8&tbm=shop&cid=13346619482042638583&sa=X&ei=3XKDTv7QFemPsQLJ8PnxBw&ved=0CFIQ8wIwBQ

or something similar?  If not, do I need a type of program?  I'm kinda on a budget, so the cheaper the better.  Thanks in advance! :D

Comments

[frollard]

You need 2 male to male 'headphone' 3.5mm stereo jacks to get surround, and the computer needs to support (most do) outputting 4 channels, it will have a green output and a black output which match the picture. In the computer, you need to adjust your sound card settings to a mode that allows 4 channel speakers.

Remember again, the red one marked 'right speaker' is an output also. It's bigger so that it can accommodate the volume control knob wires.


In a pinch, if you DON'T have a computer capable of 4 channel output, then you can just hook up the green cable (1 stereo cable) and the speakers should output just stereo through the 4 speakers (+ subwoofer).

ymmv.

[salomon1996]

Thanks for all the replies! :D

[KaydenST]

Frollard has all the right answers. Good luck! You should be able to buy a sound card for your computer if you are tech savvy.

[joespicnictables]

If you just want four speakers around you, you can splice it so there is 4 speaker connections.

[steveastrouk]

Most PCs these days have 5.1 as standard - check your motherboard spec. All you need then are some simple leads

[thegeeke]

That isn't a 5.1 system that he has pictured there. It's a 4.0 or 4.1. (I can't tell which, but I would guess 4.0.)

[frollard]

That's the back of the sub, it doesn't have a sub channel, just amplified bass from the other channels.

[thegeeke]

Correct. It has 4 channels, but it outputs a virtual 4.1. (And yes, I've seen a few surround sound systems in my day... I used to setup 1/4 million dollar home theaters for a living!) ;)