What 5.1 or 7.1 headset should I get? Do I need a seperate Mixamp/USB Soundcard?

[DarthEthong467]

I have an MSI GS70 laptop and I'm hoping someone can explain to me the options I have to get the best audio I can with a headset.

Soundcard is just the Realtek Audio HD, integrated (I believe). The laptop has 3.5mm audio jack inputs, USB 3.0 ports, and also has Sound Blaster Cinema on it.

I was previously using a pair of Tritton Pro+ 5.1 headsets (non PC-version) with a separately ordered PC adapter dongle. The 5.1 surround seemed to work on them although I really don't know how. Was that just because of the Sound Blaster Cinema? or were they actually getting 5.1 from the Realtek Audio HD? I don't know how that all works exactly.

Anyways... those broke. Now I need something else. Specifically, something I can get either 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound with. Is it possible to get real surround sound with my laptop? or will it be simulated? or do I need a headset with a separate mixamp or USB soundcard thing?

I hope that wasn't too confusing and someone can understand what I'm getting at.

[Someasianguy]

5.1> 7.1 for gaming. 7.1 is worse for gaming because in order to fit all the speakers in there, they use smaller drivers. Giving slightly weaker sound. 5.1 gives better sound because the speakers are bigger. At least, thats what I've heard. The surround sound depends on the headset itself, not a sound card. 5.1 and 7.1 is the kind you buy for full surround sound. stay away from 2.1 if you want full surround sound. Also, sound cards do nothing for your PC.

[Azza ☠]

Astro A40 with MixAMP - High quality, comfort, and excellent dolby digital surround sound for gaming purposes.

As for the previous mention to "stay away from 2.1 if you want full surround sound", that isn't correct... 2.1 stereo will give you higher quality music/movie/games and still be able to provide you with surround sound. Understand you only have two ears, yet they can sense directions all around you. The way it's done is via upscale mixing to Dolby Digital or similar - Creative 3D Surround and Realtek also can do this. However, most builtin sound cards suck... only use the very high-end ones for audiophonic sound quality, else your better off with USB HeadSet and a Mixer to upscale your sound quality.

An example of this - Try using 2.1 Headphones with this:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IUDTlvagjJA

However, he is correct in saying to stay away from 7.1 Headsets... most surrounds are gimmicks or use smaller crappy speakers so you lose out on some quality.