I am trying to figure out if I go for a smokin' set of computer speakers, or go for a home theater system.

I want the power of the Logitech Z-5500, but would like to be able to use the speakers for my TV/Cable Box + Stereo (CD Player/Radio/Tape Player).

IF I go the computer route, I will buy Logitech Z-5500 and Creative Labs Sound Blaster Audigy2 ZS Platinum which comes out to around $450.

That is a lot of money for just a set of good speakers. Will I be able to hook this up with my configuration? PC + TV/Cable Box + Stereo.

How will I do this? Is there a good home theater system that will run me less than $500, but still have the same output as the Logitech Z-5500s?

My budget on this was supposed to be $300, but then I figured that my integrated audio wouldn't really allow my speakers to reach its output.

Would I be able to go for the non plat version?

(Disclaimer: I haven't kept up on audio systems for the past few years.) Traditionally, computer speakers use mini-stereo jacks (headphone plugs) or USB for connections. Home systems usually use RCA jacks. So you might have to consider buying adapters.

I think the best question is: what will you be listening to most often? That may answer your question. Though the quality of computer and home systems are generally, equally high (especially w/ brand name), home systems are designed for a different purpose. Sometimes they are unshielded, meaning if they are close enough to your monitor (CRT-type) they can cause distortion.

Generally, it's easier to hook up a home system to a computer than vice versa. I knew people in college who used the mini-home systems as computer speakers because the speakers were removable.

If you want home theater systems, where will you be watching movies: computer or TV? Are they close enough that you can use the same speakers for both? (I'm assuming they are).

I don't know about the latest gen. of Audigy's, but the original version reviews said you couldn't hear the difference between an Audigy and on-board sound. The only difference I can tell between the Platinum and non is the Platinum has a few extra connectors; the actual sound quality is the same. At nearly $100 difference (after rebate), it looks like a no-brainer to me. Home systems will naturally give you more power than computer, which may make a difference. And you usually get more than just the speakers for the same price.

IMHO, I would get a kick-butt home system w/ the cheaper audio card.

I would like to mount the speakers on my wall. The thing is, I haven't found a home theater system even close to the power/price the Z-5500s have.

I think I will have to go to BestBuy, and try them out. If they don't work, I believe I can return them within 14 days and get a full refund.

Did you find the solution for that?. If ytou did let me Know how because I heve simular problem which is : I like to take my 5.1 THX surround sound from my PC and hook it up to my home DVD/VCR/TV and cable box. A radio shack guy told me that is not possible because the system is for PC only,how much he knows?maybe as mach I do. Anyone knows anything about this?

Haven't figured it out yet...

This reply is response to the orginal post. Personally I'd go with a good home theater sound system. And get a good Sound Card with Optic Out.. and run that to your theater system. It's the best quality you can get, and will last longer than computer speakers... as well as have more features. I'd go with a good Creative Labs sound card. I have an older model with Optic out, and Optic In, but it works VERY well. I hope that helps.