2. pc-audio
  3. 160015-5938

Splitting HDMI?

I have a pair of Gallo Acoustics SEs and powered subwoofer laying around. I would like to use them as my "computer speakers".  Tidal will be the main music source, but the speakers will also handle gameplay and YouTube videos.

The PC is an original Alienware X51 with an NVidia 1060 graphics card installed. I suppose I could replace that with something more current, but it has been a long time since I have seen a sound card in a PC.

Right now, I am using the only HDMI output on the graphics card to connect to the computer monitor (which has no speakers). The monitor does not have a toslink connection.  Sound is handled by a simple CA-Audio CA3602 2.1 powered speaker system.

Is there a way to also use that one HDMI connection to connect to both the monitor and the stereo gear?  Is there also an USB option for sound?  The Gallo Acoustics only want <100 wpc, so what gear would make sense to connect the PC's audio to (DAC, preamp, amp?)

I understand I could also tap off the PCs audio out (green connection) with a cable that ends in RCA outputs, but I have read that connection is the lowest sound quality.

As always, don't hesitate to offer brand name and model suggestions.
kythyn

Showing 2 responses by kythyn

kythyn OP
57 posts
 
Cleeds, thank you, I'll look at that.  I wonder what the sound quality of a split HDMI signal is like.

Fuzztone, thank you.  I was looking at the Schitt line of products, but haven't figured out what to put between it and the PC.  Maybe an external sound card with USB to the PC and toslink or coax to the DAC/pre
kythyn OP
57 posts
 
Nekoaudio,

Your suggestion sounds right.  The subwoofer is also from Gallo Acoustics and is powered.  The speakers then connect to the sub.

I'll look for amps with USB input.  Are there are any brands/models you might suggest?
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