Concidering a new system

[squirrely]

Hi, i am kinda new to the music area, well...i am a theater tech and comp tech but i have not had to do a sound system before. Well my question is how do i hook up a 5.1 system to my computer...do i need an amp? or can the speakers be self powered...i am looking to build a nice system that is based off of my computer (the soundblaster audigy) and am looking to spend ~300 on it. currently i am leaning toward getting a nice set of computer speakers, but they don't seem to have the power and clarity at high volumes that i am looking for....i was wondering if ythere was a better way to spend that money. please give me any advice and information you can....thank you.
-squirrely

 

[MDS]

Most computer speaker systems are self powered with the amp in the subwoofer enclosure. With a 5 channel speaker system, you will need a 5 channel soundcard (Audigy will work).

I currently use a 4.1 speaker system (Logitech Z-560) with a Turtle Beach Santa Cruz soundcard. Logitech has some new 5.1 and 7.1 systems. You could get one of them or similar models from Klipsch for your budget of $300. The Logitech speakers have alot of power and play pretty loud, but I think the bass is a bit boomy. Maybe the new models are better in that regard.

Alternatively, you can run a digital cable from soundcards with digital out directly to your receiver and use the receiver's amp and any speakers of your choice.