Inspired by this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=858363)

After wobbling between car stereo, home theater, and PC sound upgrades, I figured the PC would be my best since I spend the most time there out of the three. I currently have a Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 setup there.

The equipment will be in a large room in a house and will be almost exclusively used for music and light gaming (mostly MMORPGS, nothing really demanding). Also, the computer will be the primary source. My current sound card is the Audigy 2 ZS, but if I need to upgrade, I will. Keep in mind I want the sound card to have good support under XP Pro x64 or at least Vista 32/64-bit.

As in the thread linked above, I was looking at this (http://www.emu.com/products/product.asp?category=610&subcategory=611& product=15185&nav=technicalSpecifications) device to interface between the PC and the external amp, but as far as I could tell, the OP in the other thread just has a 2.0 setup. What equipment would I need that could handle a separate amplifier, expand the system with a subwoofer, and act as a link between the PC and amp/speakers? Would I need to buy a stereo receiver with preouts to expand? If so, what would be a good bet for $300ish? I don't require any features for HT or anything like that; simple 2.1 sound is perfectly fine.

I was looking at these Athena towers (http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=ATASF2%2E2). These were mentioned in another thread in the HTIB forum as being nice, inexpensive speakers that several upgraded to after being dissatisfied with the fronts in their HTIBs. If I got a receiver, would it be preferable to add separate power or just run them off of deck power?

I noticed that the previous model of those Athenas with one less woofer took 200W @ 8 ohms. These supposedly do 250W @ 8ohms. Is this Nady amp (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Nady-XA900-Pro-Stereo-Power-Amp?sku=482052) a good match for the speakers listed above?

For the sub, I want something with considerable punch and I've read good things about the Hsu subs. The VTF-2 (http://www.hsuresearch.com/products/vtf-2.html) is listed as discontinued, but in stock. The 8" model is still current.

Any guidance is appreciated :)

I'm in a similar situation; I want good a good quality 2.1 system for my PC. (upgrading from Logitech Z-2200)

The best thing I've found, (and am planning to purchase) is a system called the Blue Sky EXO. It's a 2.1 all-in-one type system that is designed for high quality audio setups. Take a look and see if that's in your ballpark. (These aren't out yet btw; June 22nd is when they're supposed to be available)

Maybe if you're looking for something bigger try the Samson Resolv 2.1 system. Similar to the EXO but significantly larger satellites.

Both are $350.

I'm in the same boat.

Just pulled the trigger on av123 X-LS speakers. Will order the receiver, and the sub later. This is the best I could come up, especially staying away from all-in-one speakers.

What would be awesome is if people could appreciate a moderate 2 channel setup and stop obsessing over sub-bass. It's not completely necessary and costly to do well. A pair of smallish sensitive bookshelves should be enough. PSB makes some tiny things and Dared makes a really cool integrated tube amp that should be enough for a PC/second system. If you're looking for a primary set up off a PC, don't be afraid to spend $3k or beyond for 2.1, otherwise 2 channels is recommended for serious quality and value.

I can't recommend anything 2.1, because quality two channel hardware that provides a sub-out is going to be very expensive for a desktop system (thinking TacT/Lyngdorf).

What would be awesome is if people could appreciate a moderate 2 channel setup and stop obsessing over sub-bass. It's not completely necessary and costly to do well. A pair of smallish sensitive bookshelves should be enough.

Zomg! Finally someone around here who appears to speak some sense! Hear Hear! Subwoofers under $300 usually suck. Quality bookshelves will generate more than enough bass to sound good. If you value empty thump over clarity in your highs, over warmth and fullness in your midrange, then by all means go 2.1, otherwise invest your money where it counts: in your amp and your speakers.

What's neat about not buying a sub immediately is that you can save it for an upgrade later. If you start with a modest 2 channel system you'll have great sound, and when you do invest a good chunk into your sub later down the line (if you still aren't satisfied) then you'll get the best of both worlds: a sound that is clear, rich, and has punch at the bottom end that provides thump, but is also tight, and full, qualities that cheap subs often don't possess.

EDIT: furthermore, most good subs allow you to pass your speaker wire in and out of them, negating the need for a sub-out or pre-out on your amp. In that case you could begin with something a little more simple (read: better) and go for an integrated amp vs a receiver (esp. if your pc is your main source, and you don't listen to radio).

2.1 Not needed. Best audiophile quality that I have heard are the Audioengine 5's. Integrated amp, great base, no sub needed.

If space or money are an issue, the Audiengine 2's are getting great reviews.

I bought a pair of KRK RP5s and an M-Audio Fast Track USB for my computer setup and have nothing but good things to report. The sound is beautiful and the bass is abundant. And if I want to upgrade at some point in the future, I can add the matching sub to make a perfect 2.1 system. I strongly suggest these speakers for a PC setup.

i have 2 sets of the blue sky exo 2.1 and cannot imagine anything for the price being that much better---outstanding product:D

If you want a cheaper set of speakers you can grab some Advent Heritage H200 (rebranded HECO (http://www.heco-audio.de/EN/home/index.asp)speakers from the krypton series). You can find a pair for around $135. They are quality speakers and provide more than enough bass. There is a forum dedicated to them here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=718950)Although you'll need a receiver to run them, you can use an can pair them with any old stereo receiver, I'm using a 1970's Kenwood Stereo Receiver, and they'll sound fantastic. I hear little nuances in music and movies I've never heard before and it makes these speakers even more enjoyable. Check them out if you want a cheaper set of high quality German speakers