a pre-built PC that would also serve as a good receiver

[rdukeman]

this is a repost from another forum section - i didn't get much attention so I am posting here

I have a close friend who is redoing his backyard. He mentioned that he wanted to install speakers in his new patio and have them connected to his computer inside. Since he is in need of a new computer I recommended buying one that could also serve as a receiver.

Is this a good viable option?

He did some research and found that having speakers run via a network / bluetooth is too unreliable, is it?

In the event that he runs wires, what recommendations would be given to someone that wants to do this?

I assume that a good sound card is needed. One that also picks up AM / FM frequencies as well. My friend has a library of thousands of songs on an external hard drive.

As far as the computer is concerned he does not game with it unless he is really bored. Nothing super fancy is needed but something that will last for the next 7 years would be ideal.

his budget is 500$ give or take and the only thing that is needed is the PC since he has a monitor, speakers (new), mouse, keyboard, etc.

Thank you!!

bottom line = im looking for a good pre built pc that could be used as a media center as well for attaching speakers too - perhaps even to an HDTV as well. I am not sure where to begin.

 

[DaveSimmons]

Most sound cards are only designed to work with headphones or line-level out powered speakers.

Are these unpowered speakers? If so, you'll most likely need the PC plus an external amp or receiver. The receiver would also take care of the AM/FM tuner. Connect the PC to the receiver with either analog line out or optical/coax digital.

 

[piasabird]

Maybe one of those Onkyo reciever/amplifiers might be nice. This is what might typically be used with a HDTV/theater system. May be a little expensive.

 

[hoorah]

He'd be much better off with a separate receiver. I don't know of any sound cards that amplify speakers to any level.

Pick an amplifier that works within his price range and where he can install it in relation to outdoor wiring and work from there. This shouldn't require anything special. From there, he can work on how is easiest to connect the computer's sound output to the receiver.

I would advise having the receiver close to and easily accessible to the patio for the ability to connect more than just the computer to the device, such as an ipod or other mp3 player. The ability to plug in any mp3 player into the unit easily will greatly increase your spousal approval factor of the system.

 

[mfenn]

I agree with the other posters: don't bother.

Just get a receiver and use an optical/coax cable if you want to stream music or whatever from the PC.