How to connect Dell Inspiron PC to Sony STR-DH810 for 5.1 sound

[fagmoran]

My current PC is connected to my amp by means of an optical cable out on back of PC, I wish to upgrade my PC to the Dell Inspiron and wish to know the best way to connect both to get 5.1 sound, I have listed all ports/outpts on the new PC below Ports & Slots: 1. Power on button | 2. 5-in-1 Multi-Card Reader | 3. Audio combo jack | 4. (2) USB 3.0 ports | 5. Tray Load Optical drive | 6. Air vent | 7. Line in/out and microphone port | 8. VGA port | 9. HDMI port | 10. (4) USB 2.0 ports | 11. Expansion card slots | 12. Power supply unit | 13. Security-cable slot | 14. Network port | 15. Padlock rings , this is probably a very easy question but I'm the 1st to admit that I am not technically adept ! Thanks in advance, Frannie M.

 

[americanaudiophile]

You should be able to use the HDMI output of the laptop. Connect it to one of the HDMI inputs on the Sony.
That will also allow you to use a TV connected to the HDMI out of the Sony as a second display.

 

[fagmoran]

Thank you for your prompt reply americanaudiophile , i have tried this with my current PC an Acer Aspire X3300 and have noticed 2 things, I can only get 2.1 sound, my front speakers and my sub-woofer, another major problem occurs in that when I use the HDMI cable all my desktops icons disappear and I am left with a abbreviated desktop background picture minus the icons, have no idea why this happens, my amp settings are fine, if I play a cd through my cd player I get perfect 5.1 using the HDMI cable, I was hoping that the HDMI cable would work in the new computer but I am wary of buying the PC until I am sure !!!!!

You should be able to use the HDMI output of the laptop. Connect it to one of the HDMI inputs on the Sony.
That will also allow you to use a TV connected to the HDMI out of the Sony as a second display.