Computer speakers - 2.1 or 5.1 (or 7.1)?

Many of you are looking to add great sounding speaker systems to your computer. All other things considered (speaker power output, quality, size, etc.), the dilemma faced is whether to go for 2.1 or 5.1.




So what should be the ideal option? Of course, the 5.1 (or 7.1) will obviously cost more but let us put that factor aside. Many companies advertise the speaker system as capable of ______ W of power, where the total power is the sum of power handling capability of each speaker.



Remember that 5.1 does not mean more power.



Your decision should be solely be based on the content that you will listen to. Because if you are listening to pure music, you are getting stereo sound with simulated surround. In this case a 2.1 system is more than sufficient.



However, if you are going to play DVDs (or Blu Ray) then a 5.1 (or 7.1) speaker system may be worth considering. Then again, what about speaker placement. Where are you going to place the rear surround speakers. While watching a movie on a computer's small screen, you are most likely to be sitting at a desk in the corner of the room. The front speakers will be right next to the computer while the rear speakers will be behind you, at least 10 feet away. or you may be forced to place them next to the front speakers.



Hardly the ideal surround setup.



The 2.1 speakers will be able to simulate surround sound that is quite acceptable in the close vicinity of your watching space.



So in my opinion, save your money and stick to a 2.1 surround speaker system for your PC.