Connecting a PC soundcard to an AV receiver for surround sound

[idimmu]

I was thinking about upgrading my sound system from my crappy SBLive! Platinum and Creative DTT2500 speakers to a more audio friendly soundcard and a seperates hi-fi system.

Is it possible to hook up a computer soundcard via SP/DIF or something to a seperates hi-fi with an AV receiver and be able to play games and DVDs etc from a PC and get surround sound?

I really don't know what I'm talking about, as you may have guessed I was thinking of going with the M-Audio Revolution 7.1?

If anyone can add any insight to this madness I'd be greatful!

 

[RLA]

Hello
I am currently using a SB Live Value with my HTPC. It has been very reliable
I doubt you will hear a significant difference between cards using the digital output. Use the digital output on the back of the card with adapter available at Radioshack and make sure you have the current SB drivers. Don’t forget to go into the mixer panel in the SB software and select the digital out box
Hope this helps
Ray