@tony1954
+1 we really need to know more. Optical is not as high a quality, but on a budget two channel system, it is probably not noticeable.
And really, the best thing would be to use a surround processor and add a third central speaker of the same make and model. Most of the dialog comes through the center channel and using a stereo pair to create the center is no where near as good as a center channel.
If possible just get a budget surround system, AVR plus speakers. They are very inexpensive and even a very budget oriented system can sound amazing... for video.
Video is different than a stereo music system. You mind is focused on the video and so the quality of the sound is not as important as the directionality... this is what brings its realism. So, very different design requirements between the two systems. I’d look at best by for an inexpensive surround system and leave the two separate if that is an option.