Solution
I got a 4.1 setup and found it was pretty much IMPOSSIBLE to setup for the above reasons. I ended up just having two speakers on each side and placing the unit into stereo mode.

(and actually getting SURROUND properly calibrated once everything is PERFECTLY positioned is also hard to do.)

Also, unless you have a high budget, i suggest getting better quality STEREO or 2.1 (stereo plus Subwoofer) for the same price. 2.1 is probably the best choice.

(wires aside, you don't want CRAPPIER sound just so it's in surround. You need about 4X the budget for good surround)

The Logitech Z533 may be a good choice for your budget.
http://www.e-shop.gr/logitech-z533-21-multimedia-speaker-system-p-PER.575217

The Z623 is really great but about...

galeener

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Apr 9, 2010
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First you have to ask yourself do you have room and want to mess with the rear speakers in the 5.1 set up. Unless they are wireless then you won't have to worry about the wires all over the place. I have a 5.1 system and after trying to hid wires and or tripping ovber them or my wife complaining about the wires i just took the back pair off. You situation may differ though.
 
I got a 4.1 setup and found it was pretty much IMPOSSIBLE to setup for the above reasons. I ended up just having two speakers on each side and placing the unit into stereo mode.

(and actually getting SURROUND properly calibrated once everything is PERFECTLY positioned is also hard to do.)

Also, unless you have a high budget, i suggest getting better quality STEREO or 2.1 (stereo plus Subwoofer) for the same price. 2.1 is probably the best choice.

(wires aside, you don't want CRAPPIER sound just so it's in surround. You need about 4X the budget for good surround)

The Logitech Z533 may be a good choice for your budget.
http://www.e-shop.gr/logitech-z533-21-multimedia-speaker-system-p-PER.575217

The Z623 is really great but about twice as much money.

You may want to ensure it has some or all of these features:
a) headphone jack
b) easy access OFF switch
c) easy access VOLUME knob
d) auxiliary input (3.5mm input from music player etc)
 
Solution
Update:
okay, one of the units you chose was 2.1, but it included a separate box instead of integrating into one of the speakers. Unless the audio quality is better, this seems like added CLUTTER you can avoid.

I'd look up several reviews for each model, but my gut tells me the Z533 is probably as good or better than that 2.1 unit from Genius.

(I also find it UGLY)

REVIEW for Logitech Z533->
http://appleinsider.com/articles/15/11/01/review-logitechs-z533-computer-speakers-deliver-bang-for-the-buck