Question Help with choosing 5.1 (or 7.1) audio system for PC

[marek_shields]

I am trying to decide on what to do with regards to setting up a 5.1 (or 7.1) system to use with my computer for gaming, spotify, and movie watching. After doing some digging online, most people have suggested going with a home theater sort of setup with a 5.1 (or 7.1) receiver over using a PC-oriented AIO speaker setup like the Logitech z906. My main issue with a home theater setup is space, not for the speakers but the receiver. Most receivers I have seen are like 2u or 3u high and overall are quite large with many inputs that most people won't ever end up using.

What I am trying to find out is if there are any decent 5.1/7.1 receivers that aren't the size of a cinder block and aren't bank-breakingly expensive to use for a PC. I am also looking for some suggestions for speakers and a sub to use with that receiver if anyone happens to have some decent ones in mind. With the z906s going for about $275 (though the quality isn't as good) I am hoping to get a decent system setup for around $400-$500 if that is even possible.

Any info you have would be most appreciated!

 

[hang-the-9]

The speakers you are looking at are powered, you won't be using them with surround sound receivers.

You can get a sound card for 5.1 or 7.1 to use with computer powered speakers, https://www.amazon.com/StarTech-com...JHZPGH540RV&psc=1&refRID=B1S9NYZWVJHZPGH540RV

https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Bla...N8E5BWR0GNJ&psc=1&refRID=ZS2MRK4VAN8E5BWR0GNJ

https://www.amazon.com/CREATIVE-Ext...d-search-10&pf_rd_t=BROWSE&pf_rd_i=3015427011

If you want to be space efficient there are some smaller receivers, the Pioneer VSX-834 is pretty small. Or get a soundbar with rear speakers and a sub. I have a Vizio setup with a wireless sub that connects to the rear speakers that works nicely. Of course sound is not as good and it's not as flexible as a receiver and speakers, but good enough setup considering the simplicity.