Just like to know for normal PS3 & Xbox360, what is the best option for surround sound system currently? I'm on a budget but hope to get the best out of my bucks. I don't have a DAC so i'd need a full system that includes a DAC as DAC are expensive alone. My questions are as below:

1.Is 7.1 better or 5.1 is sufficient?

2.Is it better to get those computer surround sound system like Logitech/Altec Lancing/Creative or a home theater box system like Sony/LG etc?

3.I don't require the speakers to output very loud volumes as in "Rock the house", just decent loudness but good quality sound.

4.If USB compatible would be a plus.

I went to computer shops and did a quick look not many real surround sound system available, the one i saw was a Logitech 5.1 with DAC but it's still cost around 1.2k. I would like to know if there's better options.

pls state your budget. wanna know if your budget is high enough for a full home theater system (AVR+5.1 speaker)

budget around 1.3k range.

BTW if buying a separate decent DAC & a set of cheaper 5.1 speakers is a better option i can go for that. Reason i say 1.3k is because that's the cheapest around that comes with a DAC. I don't mind buying a better DAC as long as it's size is not too big. And if separate DAC i'd need it to have volume controls, analog/digital input, analog 5.1 output, usb function would be a bonus.

This post has been edited by advocado: May 29 2011, 09:21 PM

1.3k should be able to get you a decent HTIB

HTIB samsung is not bad although the best is still Pioneer...

So better to get a Home theatre system instead of PC surround speakers?

If so which model is better?

Or should i spend more on a better encoder & later better speakers?