I've never bothered with 5.1 surround before but my wife wants our current 2.1 stereo system moved to her office so I thought it about time to invest in 5.1 audio for the HTPC/Mediaportal computer in in the lounge.

The soundcard in the computer apparently has some outputs for surround sound. This is the motherboard.

http://www.gigabyte.co.nz/products/product-page.aspx?pid=3412#ov

There are 2 speakers built into the ceiling above the sofa so don't need the 2 rear speakers.

I guess I need an amplifier of some sort, 3 front speakers and a subwoofer?

Most of the time the HTPC is used for stereo music playback and need good quality sound. Any suggestions?