(Audio Help) Need help finding a unique external sound card

[NoizyBoyStatic]

I'm looking for a high quality external sound card to use with studio monitors (Yamaha HS8 for front and Yamaha HS5 for rear). I need it to have either 1/4' or xlr balanced outputs, and I need it to have true surround sound capabilities (for playing computer games I need to be able hear foot steps behind me and from which direction but also need it to function well for music production also)

I just haven't been able to find one with the versatile capability's that I need would greatly appreciate any suggestions.

 

[ssddx]

all consumer 5.1 external pc soundcards have 3.5mm outputs other than a few which have a single 6.3mm for headphones. you would need to adapt to 6.3mm (1/4") from 3.5mm which is not a big deal. all of the 5.1 listed models support true 5.1 from 3 3.5mm connectors. they will however not have balanced outputs.

as far as i know there are no consumer level cards which offer 5.1 balanced xlr or trs outputs. to get that you will likely need to go with professional level high end equipment... you might want to give this thread a read http://www.head-fi.org/t/610635/looking-for-a-5-1-dac-xlr-output-sub-2k-preferable

such products are not cheap.

 

[NoizyBoyStatic]

I have no problem paying a few hundread to get what I want and the 1/8 in jacks really don't have the quality I'm looking for. I'm looking for more on the Pro audio side with 5.1 capabilities. I have no interest in the crap sound blaster cards. I just need quality to power the over $1,000 in speakers. Like I said I need the professional studio quality audio with true 5.1 there has to be some kind of solution.

I need something like what this guy is using but with 5.1 capabilities and it needs to have balanced outputs too.
http://paulstamatiou.com/how-to-upgrade-to-studio-monitor-speakers/

 

[ssddx]

read the thread i linked, it provides several such options. mostly sound processors/preamps although the prices are also $$$
https://www.avforums.com/threads/balanced-processor-pre.1593795/ is also worth a read.

$900 http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/882553-REG/Denon_DN_500AV_A_V_Surround_Pre_Amplifier.html

finding anything with balanced XLR outputs for cheap is going to be hard.

balanced TRS might be hard to find as XLR is currently what is standard for that scenario.

 

[NoizyBoyStatic]

I know damn not looking to spend that much. I did read that article before I responded. I mean I'd prefer 1/4" outs but I guess if I could find something balanced I would settle for 1/8" and 5.1" but I think this is still going to be hard but there has to be a basic 5.1 with balanced outs.