Homemade 5.1

  • Thread starter Thread starter Beekay
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Beekay

Probably a stupid question and probably not the correct group, but I value
the opinions and knowledge here more than the 'soundcard' groups.

Is it possible to convert a 4.1 speaker setup to a 5.1 by adding another
speaker for the center channel? My board supports 5.1 and I wanted to give
it a try. The board has connectors for front, rear, and center/sub.

If this is possible what connector/adapters need to be bought and where?
TIA
 
Beekay said:
Probably a stupid question and probably not the correct group, but I value
the opinions and knowledge here more than the 'soundcard' groups.

Is it possible to convert a 4.1 speaker setup to a 5.1 by adding another
speaker for the center channel? My board supports 5.1 and I wanted to
give it a try. The board has connectors for front, rear, and center/sub.

If this is possible what connector/adapters need to be bought and where?
TIA
Click to expand...

Quite easy, really. Just get a "Y" adapter so you can hook up the new
speaker to the Center/Sub connector. Then run any powered speaker or pair
of speakers off the new connection. (there's no rule stating only ONE
speaker can be used for center channel . . . use a pair of speakers on the
center channel, if you want . . . probably be cheaper that way anyway, as
speakers are sold in pairs) The hard part will be keeping the sound in
balance. When you split the center/sub output, each output will be
attenuated. That means you will have to turn up the "bass" control a bit on
your existing 4.1 speaker set, and run your new powered center speaker(s) at
a higher setting. I believe the outputs on your sound card are 1/8" stereo
mini plugs, so the following parts should work. If the plugs are 3/32",
Radio Shack as that also. BTW, any powered speakers will work. The
following is just a suggestion. -Dave

http://www.radioshack.com/product.asp?catalog_name=CTLG&product_id=274-313
http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=36-113-147&depa=0
 
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