What types/model of speaker systems have people found work well with a HTPC? Do you use a PC speaker system or output to an Amplifier and use Hi Fi speakers. I would like to play music as well as enhance my film viewing with better audio and am trying to decide the best/most flexible set up.
Depends on how you are going to use your HTPC. Is it going to be a standalone HT, or be used as your dvd player and DVR, in your home theater system. If it's going to be a standalone, get a nice set of 5.1/7.1 speakers, for the computer. Mine is a standalone HTPC. I use a 5.1 set of Logitech 5300e speakers. They are THX certified, and sound great, to be a small speaker. Some people like the Logitech 5500 speaker system too. Of course, the other way, you use your HT system's speakers, with your A/V receiver/amp to power them.
Thanks JVC, I intent to use it as my dvd player/DVR. I havn't yet got a Home Theatre system though, so I wondered if instead I could buy a better sound card and PC speaker system and that would be OK which would save one of piece of equipment plus everything would be controlled through the PC. I like listening to music but am not overly fussy about high sound quality
If you're going to get a home theater system too, you'll probably come out cheaper, just to buy a good dvd player for it. Cable and satellite providers are running deals all the time, that will give you a free DVR to use (pay for the guide service), if you subscribe to their service.