New audio / speakers for PC

[father-ted]

I have had a Logitech Z5500 for years, however the LCD display is shot (common fault) and it is now situated in a large room (approx 7.5m x 14m).
I want better audio for music, so am consdering getting x2 Sonos Fives with a sub (I have a full Sonos system in the living room already).

This will mainly be powered by my PC, with a Xonar D2X soundcard.

What would be best way to connect the Sonos to PC?
Are there any better options that I should look at?

Thanks

 

[father-ted]

The Sonos just run off WiFi, soundcard is redundant.

Another option I like:

https://www.ruarkaudio.com/products/mr1-bluetooth-speaker-system
Plus - https://www.ruarkaudio.com/products/rs1-subwoofer

I presumed that the soundcard would still do the audio processing from the PC, is that not the case?

 

[father-ted]

Plenty. Got Fleetwood Mac rumours in bd

Movies are 5.1

It is purely for music, so 5.1 is pretty pointless in my situation, as prefer 2.1 for it - thanks

 

[father-ted]

There are multiple options depending on budget.

If it was myself I would look at active studio monitors, something like Adam Audio T5V's, put them on desk stands then look for an external DAC, however you could use your Xonar D2X if you wanted but external DAC preferred.

Something like Edifier S350DB would probably do you also, these have a DAC inside of them so you can just run optical or digital coax from your PC. The DAC inside the Edifier won't match a good external DAC but still be ok. This Edifier would be the most easy to setup.

The other setups mentioned in this thread are also all valid, it depends on what you what and budget. Some people like 5.1, some like 2.1, some 2.0, there is no right or wrong really.

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I prefer 2.1 for music tbh, thanks for the suggestions

 

[father-ted]

Budget - up to around £1k
Large room (kitchen/diner/snooker room)
Something simple to set up and use is prefered.
Thanks

 

[father-ted]

I'm not sure what you're asking?

Plenty of people have 5.1 setups with floorstanders and bookshelf speakers, you do have soundbars which are a mixed bag that can do surround sound and even atmos which at times can be better than a pair of bookshelf. That said, to get the best experience in regards to that sort of soundbar setup you're generally looking at spending £500 + for last years higher end models, and when you see some of them in person they've a lot larger than many expect. You can get some fantastic results, but if space/budget/convenience aren't a concern an AVR setup will always give better results. At the lower end the same is true, I'd argue that a mini amp and pair of bookshelves will beat out any soundbar under the £400-500 range, and again that's looking at scoring a deal on last years models.

I think a decent soundbar shines when someone is space limited or has a more middling budget and wants to enjoy surround, otherwise I'd not bother personally.

In relation to the OP, some people just enjoy surround but aren't overly fussed about the overall quality. I wouldn't get on with any creative speakers, the Z5500's would drive me up the wall, and yes I have heard them in person.

I don't get on with the Z5500's either, that is why I am upgrading.
They served a purpose more than a decade ago, in a small room where they sounded ok.

Some great advice on here, will investigate further over Christmas.....I may even get lucky in the January sales