Getting 5.1 on iMac?

[Cinemagic85]

I'm trying to figure out of I could ever get 5.1 surround sound on iMac? Is it possible? What equipment do I need and what speakers do you recommend?

 

[cooky560]

It's possible in the same way as with a Windows PC, you need a 5.1 kit, and some cable, and a USB DAC if you want it to not sound crappy. Personally I have my imac plugged into a lovely pair of Floorstanding speakers and it's never sounded better

 

[bmcgrath]

You can get 5.1 via the optical port on the iMac. But best options are for external sound cards if you're an audiophile.

 

[krravi]

I had a cakewalk UA-1G USB audio interface. I hooked it up to my iMac and now have SPDIF output, guitar Input and lots of other goodies and most importantly, being a SPDIF output, I have volume control on the mac !!!!

My Studio Monitor speakers sound just great with this setup.