Seeking opinions/advice on my "vintage" Surround Sound setup

[Lard_Lad]

Hello all -

I found your forum here because whenever I would search for info about the speakers I've been shopping for, I come upon discussions here that are very helpful. So, I thought I'd post about my situation to get your thoughts.

Let me preface all of it by noting that I am really not much of an audiophile, so don't critique me too harshly . . .

I'm building a sort of garage/workshop in which there will be a second story dedicated to a home theater. I'm putting together the audio components right now, and I've decided that I want to merge some modern technology with some vintage equipment. So here is what I have already purchased and have in mind:

- A 5'x9' projector/screen. I already have a 720p projector but will eventually upgrade to 1080p.
- A home theater PC that runs just about everything video. A built-in HD (over the air) television tuner, Bluray ROM, music library, networked movies, etc.
- A pair of Pioneer CS-99a speakers for the front left and right. I have a pair lined up to pick up this weekend.
- A pair of Pioneer CS-05 round endtable speakers for the left and right rear surrounds. I know that this is not ideal for surround sound, but I'm willing to take a hit on surround sound perfection to be able to use these babies in my theater . . .
- Center and subwoofer are so far undetermined. I'm thinking about using one Pioneer CS-E700 speaker laid on its side for the center channel . . . I have a pair of those lined up too.
- Three Pioneer SX-X80 series receivers -- one to drive each audio channel. I have two 780s on the way and sort of hope to find a 980 to drive the front channel.

And that's about all I have for now. Here's my big question: If I take the 6 channel output from a sound card on my theater PC and direct it to the different receivers, how could I ever add an additional component (say, for example, a PS3 or something) that has digital audio with surround sound and make the PC decode the signal? I know that some PCs have digital inputs . . . but I would like to have more than one I guess.

I suppose it comes down to this - is it really a good idea to use a PC as the primary surround sound processor?

[whoaru99]

Originally Posted by Lard_Lad

I suppose it comes down to this - is it really a good idea to use a PC as the primary surround sound processor?

Personally, I think not. But, OTOH, I'm not too familiar with full-blown HTPC solutions. I'd have to imagine there are various levels of scope/scale, and quality.

Usually, for specific recommendations or assessment, it's a good idea to list specific brand/model information with respect to the primary question.

As for the question about the PS3, I don't see how any sort of decoding and processing could be performed by the PC without the signal being input to the PC.

[chadnliz]

Its not the PC drive I have a really big issue with but (and this is harsh) it strikes me as small minded to not get a cheap 5.1 or 7.1 reciever to power and correct all sound aspects properly. How are you going to control proper crossover slopes, delay times sub output not to mention proper speaker levels are going to be a nightmare as you are going to adjust 3 units EVERY time you change volume................come on man!
You can get a decent used 5.1 unit for under $200 and then your all set, even a ProLogic unit will be better than your initial idea, you can make what you wish work but its never going to be easy, ideal or even sensible, other than that your look to have a nice retreat in the works, I too am looking to go 1080P and scrap my 720 Projector.
Not trying to be a jerk but I dont want to see you try to dragrace a moped, when a V8 beater is cheap enough to buy. Cheers

[radiation8]

Originally Posted by chadnliz

Its not the PC drive I have a really big issue with but (and this is harsh) it strikes me as small minded to not get a cheap 5.1 or 7.1 reciever to power and correct all sound aspects properly. How are you going to control proper crossover slopes, delay times sub output not to mention proper speaker levels are going to be a nightmare as you are going to adjust 3 units EVERY time you change volume................come on man!
You can get a decent used 5.1 unit for under $200 and then your all set, even a ProLogic unit will be better than your initial idea, you can make what you wish work but its never going to be easy, ideal or even sensible, other than that your look to have a nice retreat in the works, I too am looking to go 1080P and scrap my 720 Projector.
Not trying to be a jerk but I dont want to see you try to dragrace a moped, when a V8 beater is cheap enough to buy. Cheers

I agree, not only would It be a heck of a lot easier, but the space it would also save.

Also If your Projector allows it, you can use your PC to Projector and AVR so you can use your PC If you ever needed it.

PCs also seem to die/have problems more offten than not, so if something ever did happen to your PC you would still be able to watch Movies, and listen to music.

[Blackstone]

Lard_Lad,

An HTPC can be an excellent option if setup properly and if you are willing to go through the setup process. It can be used for tv, movies, music, and dvr use. But like some said, it takes more initial time and effort. I started out with HTPC, but only for dvd and music. I don't use it for dvd movies anymore, but still use it for internet radio and shows. And will eventually set it up to record OTA digital stations.

If you are sold on HTPC, I suggest checking out avsforum.com . They have sections dedicated to HTPC and all the hardware and software involved.

[Nakdoc]

You could find an old Audionics or Lexicon Dolby decoder and use high end analog surround decoding instead of digital. The 2 track DVD signal is Dolby pro encoded. That would be vintage! Or, I have an Audio Pulse Two unit here that works, if you want to synthesize!

[GregLee]

Originally Posted by chadnliz

You can get a decent used 5.1 unit for under $200 and then your all set,

Actually, right now, you can get a decent new 7.1 Pioneer AVR VSX-817-S from Amazon with free shipping for $146. Pretty good deal (I ordered one). It has 6 pre-amp inputs you should be able to connect to your soundcard analog outs (with suitable adaptors), plus probably every thing you'd want for other Home Theater audio except HDMI sound processing for the HD sound from the PS3 or Blu-Ray players.

[JimJ[VT]]

7.1 is overrated in anything but the largest of rooms, IMO.

[chadnliz]

I am in a 14x24 room and can tell a nice difference with 7.1 so I disagree but at any rate that original poster hasnt been back and posted once so this is likely a waste of everyones time.

[whoaru99]

I agree. The effect of 7.1 does somewhat relate to the size of the room, but only inasmuch as having the space and leeway to properly arrange the speakers and listening area.

[80sKid]

Lard_Lad,

I have to agree that getting a more modern receiver is the answer. By all means, use your old speakers. But trying to get those old receivers to work for surround is impractical.

You don't have to buy a latest and greatest surround sound receiver. You may be able to find something used that satisfies your needs -- especially if you're not interested in 7 channel sound, or the latest digital audio formats, which it sounds like you're not.)

I would also encourage you to read and search AVS Forum for projector and screen info. You'll find excellent discussion there about the best screens, calculating the best size for your room and projector, as well as what projector to go with.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/