USB audio/external sound card for 5.1/7.1 surround speakers

[theLegionWithin]

in some previous discussions in recent weeks, the "usb sound card" has been referred to - devices like this --> https://www.amazon.com/External-Audio-Sound-Card-Adapter/dp/B004D3UFL4

I recently switched over to a new desktop (a mini, GMKtec K8 Plus), and while it's a significant upgrade for me, does not have what I really need for audio - oh, it's got the 3.5mm audio jack, and that works fine for a two speaker setup, but I'd really prefer to use my Creative 5.1 speakers - the center/rear/sub channels are essential for the music I like. I shopped around for a bit - really wanted native USB-C connectivity but was unable to find something like that on Amazon, so I picked this device & added a USB-A to USB-C adapter to the order (but as it so happens, the device comes with one of those in the box). it just arrived today --> https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKPL5HXZ

it works flawlessly. if anyone else needs an external sound card with 5.1/7.1 support, this is a relatively cheap solution that I highly recommend.

 

[dos2unix]

For my tower cases, I use an internal card, but I would definitely use this for a laptop.

 

[KGIII]

I could see that as being handy in certain environments. I've only seen the cheaper ones that just have a mic in and an output.

It won't do me much good in my use case, but I can see it being handy for others. As I recall, only some file formats support surround sound, with one example being FLAC.