Connect active speakers and amp to PC

[Jimbo01]

I have a Gigabyte Z97N Gaming 5 motherboard in my PC. As there is only one line output jack, how can I connect a pair of active speakers and a headphone amp (I want more volume and bass on the headphones than Windows can provide) to the computer? Any advice would be gratefully received.

 

[Rogue Leader]

What are the inputs available on your active speakers? (What brand and model)

 

[Jimbo01]

Harman Kardon Soundsticks III

 

[Rogue Leader]

Harman Kardon Soundsticks III

Ok so they have a line input, connect Line out on your PC to that and they should work. If you need both the headphone amp connected as well use a splitter like this:

https://smile.amazon.com/UGREEN-Splitter-Extension-Earphone-Compatible/dp/B00LM0ZGK6/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1541710930&sr=8-3&keywords=splitter+cable+for+headset&dpID=41oGpobxbkL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch

Plug the speakers into 1 side, and the amp to the other.

 

[Jimbo01]

Thank you. Can I use these
https://www.amazon.co.uk/UGREEN-Splitter-Surround-Controller-Connector-Green/dp/B015PZ7QO2/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1541711315&sr=8-4&keywords=3.5+to+audio+cable
from the splitter to the amp? Would I be able to automatically silence the speakers when I use the amp and vise versa?

 

[Rogue Leader]

Thank you. Can I use these
https://www.amazon.co.uk/UGREEN-Splitter-Surround-Controller-Connector-Green/dp/B015PZ7QO2/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1541711315&sr=8-4&keywords=3.5+to+audio+cable
from the splitter to the amp? Would I be able to automatically silence the speakers when I use the amp and vise versa?

If your headphone amp has RCA connectors in yes that will work. Now as for silencing, you will need to physically turn off the speakers when you don't want them on, or vice versa.

 

[Jimbo01]

If I use an optical connection between the amp and PC would this offer any benefits?

 

[Rogue Leader]

If I use an optical connection between the amp and PC would this offer any benefits?

then you can plug the speakers direct to the line out, and you can use the PC's sound settings to switch between outputs. Also sound quality may be better.

 

[Jimbo01]

That's what I'll do. You've been very helpful. Thank you.