high end sound system

[the-sentinel]

What are the best sets of speakers on the market?

Is Realtek ALC1150 enough or a sound card is needed?

I dont mind if its 2.1, 2.0 or 5.1. I want everything from them. Very clear and crisp sound, deep basses and sheer power when i want to annoy a neighbour who lives two streets away. Although, I dont want to spend a 4 figure amount of money unless it is worth it.

Looks - Something classy which doesnt look like it came from a different planet.
By saying different planet i mean something like this:
http://shop.aktiscomputing.co.uk/ekmps/shops/aktisc/images/sp-5001-black-5.1-multimedia-pc-speakers-111-p.jpg

I am going to use them for music (metal>rock>classical>pop) and movies.

I was considering building that kind of set myself, but I wouldnt know where to start.

Do you know anything that could meet my needs?

 

[JackNaylorPE]

i don't know why vendors showcase their speakers w/o the grilles or use grilles that look like they ain't there.... but these are excellent. Every once and a while can find them real cheap.... oddly enough, I bout 4 sets for half price of their predecessor model over the years from Dell.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16836121050

 

[the-sentinel]

How is the sound on them? Do i need a sound card to improve performance?

 

[JackNaylorPE]

I run 3 of them off ALC1150s.... last one is on optical link from TV