How can I use my PC Speakers with my TV

[Granorense]

Hi guys, I have my computer and my TV in the same room. I would like to be able to use my computer speakers which are Logitech Z-540, with my tv. Right now If I want sound from my tv I can use a small divice that came with the speakers and an audio cable that connects to my tv, but I have to unplug everything from the back of my computer every time, so it is not fun. I am wondering If there is anything that would allow me to hookup every thing together and select pc or tv for sound?

Thank you!

 

[Maetryx]

You can get a TV tuner card for your PC. Then run the coaxial cable into your PC. You could then watch and listen to TV on your PC, or just minimize the window and listen.

Like This LeadTek model discussed infinitely in Hot Deals.

 

[Granorense]

Thank you Maetryx. Fry's has a WinTV-Go PCI TV Tuner for $24 after rebate, looks like the brand is Hauppauge. Do you know if it is any good? I will look for some reviews in the mean time.

 

[tweeve2002]

you can try to route the sound thrugh your sound card with audio input.

 

[Maetryx]

I believe that LeadTek and Hauppauge are the two main manufacturers of TV cards. I have a LeadTek myself (but it's one version older than the one in the Hot Deals discussion). I'm happy with it.

I think for what you are doing, the cheapest one you can find will serve. If you were actually planning on capturing video and using the PVR functions, you would want to comparison shop more carefully. As an audio conduit, I'm sure the $24 card is fine. Just check it for Windows XP compatibility if you're using Windows XP.

 

[thraxes]

Electronics stores sell switches for audio. That may be a simple, cheap "low tech" solution to your problem which I would prefer, being a religious follower of KISS (keep it simple stupid)

 

[MattTheTech]

I have a set of Cambridge Soundworks DTT2500 speakers which I share with my computer and television in the same room. The speaker's receiver is directly connected to my dvd player/tv, and using another input on the receiver, I connected it to my computer. To do that, I used some network cable, and 4 keystone jacks to convert to mini-jacks for the soundcard, then ran it along the wall and over a door way etc... Probably not the best method in the world, nor are they the best speakers for a 'home theatre' but they work for me nicely

Edit: But for speakers without a receiver (with multiple inputs) it would get a little tricker.. since you cannot simply use a (normal) splitter to give a set of speakers two sources, because anything sent from one will also get sent to the other device.. and I imagine could possible cause some damage. but who knows!

 

[Granorense]

Originally posted by: MattTheTech
To do that, I used some network cable, and 4 keystone jacks to convert to mini-jacks for the soundcard, then ran it along the wall and over a door way etc... Probably not the best method in the world, nor are they the best speakers for a 'home theatre' but they work for me nicely

Edit: But for speakers without a receiver (with multiple inputs) it would get a little tricker.. since you cannot simply use a (normal) splitter to give a set of speakers two sources, because anything sent from one will also get sent to the other device.. and I imagine could possible cause some damage. but who knows!

What kind of network cables CATV cables?

Thanks for the help everybody, I will consider every one of your recomendations.

 

[MattTheTech]

Yes Cat5..

I never did any research on their use for audio transmission, but I figure it's probably not exactly the best thing but it works well enough for me.