How to connect to audio system for proper surround sound

[npriess]

Hi,

I often watch movies on my macbook pro (hooked up to an lcd tv)
I use a minijack > phono cord to connect my home theater system.

But can I take advantage of 5.1 sound in this way? or do i need to buy a toslink adaptor, so I can use the digital port?

 

[RedAntArmy]

Yes, you need a mini toslink to toslink cable.

RedAntArmy

 

[Tomorrow]

Assuming your home theater has a toslink (optical) input, you can buy a mini-toslink to toslink cord and use that. You'll have to tweak some settings on your MBP, but it should work fine.

Keep in mind you'll need an actual 5.1 source playing from your MBP, otherwise you're going to get standard 2-channel stereo.

 

[npriess]

I am aware that I need a 5.1 source playing on the macbook.

But the digital port is the only way to go?
I can't transfer more than 2 channels through the analog?

 

[Tosser]

But the digital port is the only way to go?

Yes.

I can't transfer more than 2 channels through the analog?

No. (it's stereo=two channels).

 

[Tomorrow]

But the digital port is the only way to go?
I can't transfer more than 2 channels through the analog?

Not only is the digital port the only way to go, it's actually by far the easiest way - to use an analog signal and get 5.1 you need at least 3 cables (even if your Mac supported that) - instead, you can get the entire 5.1 package in a single cord.

And no, your analog output will ONLY support 2 channels.