Multiple Computers / One Sound System

[WombatReaper]

Hey guys, I have no idea if this is even realistic or not but I've been hunting around for the past few days trying to see if there's any way I can run several computers through one sound system. I've got a 5.1 Logitech setup, nothing fancy, but does anyone know if this is possible?

Thanks in advance.

 

[rexter]

You need a receiver or processor. If you only need optical or coax to connect then use a multi switcher a lot cheaper than the former two.

 

[WombatReaper]

That's great, where should I start looking for one of those?
Any brands to stay away from or anything?

 

[rexter]

Here's an exaple oof what i'm telling you. http/www.meritline.com/combo-cable-switch-with-3-feet-cable-and-optical-adapter.html - Optical connection only.

The rest you have to figure out of what type of connection you're using.

 

[WombatReaper]

Hm, I'm not quite as advanced as optical, basically what I need is 3 (or 2, if 3 is impossible) analog outputs running to a 5.1 input.
Something like this: http://www.meritline.com/audio-cable-splitter-for-ipod-mp3-stereo.html
Except reversed.

 

[rexter]

What I showed you is what most poeple called A/B or A/B/C switch in a form of optical so what you need is A/B/C switch for analog. and mostly uses phono jack so just need an adaptor but if your speaker system only uses mini jacks/plugs then you may have to creat your own switcher if you know how to solder.

What model is your speaker anyway? I forgot to ask that first.

You can't just use y spliter to conbine audio signal to your speaker system, You might end up damaging your soundcard or your speakers amplifier.

 

[rexter]

Does your all computers have digital output and 5.1 connection?

Does your speaker have digital input connection?

If your computers have analog only then it is more expensive to send 5.1 channel to your speakers. If you don't mind to send just stereo signal then just get a/b switch for 2 a/b/c for 3 computers like these ones. http/www.radioshack.com/search/index.jsp?kwCatId=&kw=a/v%20switch&origkw=a/v%20%20switch&sr=1

If 5.1 is needed then just creat your own, ask an Electronic Store technician how to make one. It's a lot cheaper.

 

[WombatReaper]

Logitech X-530.
Simple and a few years old, but I love it.
My main desktop is the only one with 5.1, the other two are old rigs with a single jack.
I might just wait until I get around to upping them all with optical outputs, sounds like it'd be less hassle.
I'm not itching to get this done anytime soon, I was mainly pondering.
Thanks a lot for your help

 

[rexter]

Your x-530 does not support optical. Here's a better way to do it.

1) Get an A/B/C switcher - Item 1 http/www.tigerdirect.ca/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=1524181&CatId=466

2) Get 3 adapters for - Item 2 http/www.tigerdirect.ca/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=1643821&CatId=79

3) Get 1 adapter for out to your speakers - Item 3 http/www.tigerdirect.ca/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=1643821&CatId=453

4) Connected the black and orange from your speaker directly to your computer that has 5.1, black = rare channels, orange = center and sub.

5) Connect the green wire (front channels) to one of the 3 adapters (item 2) and connect it to the a of a/b/c switch (item 1). Do the same with the other computer.

6) Connect the the item 3 connector between a/b/c out and the speaker.

Your 5.1 computer will play all channel and the other computer will play stereo only.

If all computer are playing at the same time your rear and center will play your main and what ever selected on the a/b/c switch will play on the front.

Good Luck

If you can find and a/b/c swither without video then it's better and cheaper.