Is 8 Channel Audio necessary?

[moikie]

I was wondering if 8 Channel audio is necessary if I'm just using a Creative speaker set with a subwoofer and headphones. What does 8 Channel audio provide over 6 channel?

I was wondering cause I'm planning to do a major upgrade and get a new mobo between these two.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813138181
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813138179

 

[treefrog07]

No it's not necessary with your sound outputs. 8 channel is 7.1 and 6 channel is 5.1, where the ".1" is the subwoofer.

 

[moikie]

Best answer selected by moikie.

 

[moikie]

Tyvm for the quick response. I chose the one with 6 channel cause I don't think I'll be doing any surround sound in the near future

 

[treefrog07]

You're welcome. I had the 2.1 speakers like you do, and added some cheap 2.0 speakers to the rear spkr jack - then I was able to select surround sound. Just something you may want to think about for the future.