Does the computer control sound quality?

[ph3iron]

I listen to a lot of music but have a fairly unsophisticated ear. dont need huge surround sound etc(well maybe?)My computer has some cheap Altec speakers which seem ok but my wife bought me some Polk R15's.
I'm told these are great but for the best quality need to be played through a receiver???
I dont know if the computer controls the quality and if so doesnt matter what speakers you have.
Thanks - p

 

[SFR]

I listen to a lot of music but have a fairly unsophisticated ear. dont need huge surround sound etc(well maybe?)My computer has some cheap Altec speakers which seem ok but my wife bought me some Polk R15's.
I'm told these are great but for the best quality need to be played through a receiver???
I dont know if the computer controls the quality and if so doesnt matter what speakers you have.
Thanks - p

Your computer's sound card WILL limit the quality of your music. There are electronic devices that will bypass the sound card all together.

If you are looking for truly high quality sound that will not be distorted by the sound card (I doubt you will even notice a drop in quality but..) here are a few:
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-a5dja0WHGsQ/cgi-bin/ProdGroup.asp?g=200650 (A simple RCA to mini stereo cable will allow you to listen to music from your computer to a receiver.. and then to your speakers)

To fully maximize you Polk R15's you are going to want to purchase a receiver. This is not any easy purchase. There are MANY brands and many features. Research will be needed.

Start here:
http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/learningcenter/home/receivers.html

(Crutchfield tends to have higher prices than other online companies... I like their learningcenter... so once you understand how to look for the perfect receiver, do not hesitate to search other websites and stores to get the best price)

 

[ph3iron]

Thanks

Very clear - thanks

Your computer's sound card WILL limit the quality of your music. There are electronic devices that will bypass the sound card all together.

If you are looking for truly high quality sound that will not be distorted by the sound card (I doubt you will even notice a drop in quality but..) here are a few:
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-a5dja0WHGsQ/cgi-bin/ProdGroup.asp?g=200650 (A simple RCA to mini stereo cable will allow you to listen to music from your computer to a receiver.. and then to your speakers)

To fully maximize you Polk R15's you are going to want to purchase a receiver. This is not any easy purchase. There are MANY brands and many features. Research will be needed.

Start here:
http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/learningcenter/home/receivers.html

(Crutchfield tends to have higher prices than other online companies... I like their learningcenter... so once you understand how to look for the perfect receiver, do not hesitate to search other websites and stores to get the best price)