School me on speaker/monitor computer connections

[Brad Scott]

So I started out just looking at better computer speakers for listening to music and editing video projects. The speakers I'm considering (M-Audio Studiophile AV40s) have RCA jacks. I don't have a sound card, all I have is the basic 1/8" jack on the back of my computer. Would a simple 1/8" to RCA cable work?

Then I thought about going the next step up to studio monitors like the KRK Rokit 5 or M-Audio BX5a. These monitors primarily have XLR, TRS, or a single RCA unbalanced input. Is there any way to hook these up without a sound card? If so, how?

Keep in mind I'm not doing any recording here, just looking for good computer speakers/monitors for a better listening experience.

Any speaker recommendations or connection advice appreciated.

[jazzmonkey007]

Hi. I've recently sold my soundcards, I was using a Fireface 800 and my Macbookpro through firewire 400 connection. I currently have my Macbookpro 1/8" inch out plugged with an adaptor (basically a Y connector) going from 1/8" to RCA. My monitors are powered monitors (Event) and the connection in the back is RCA unbalanced and it works fine. I'm searching for a better way to deal with it. What I mean is usually with a regular soundcard like the RME, Profire or Mbox I had, whenever I wanted to switch to headphones I could simply turn off the mains, but like this you have to turn either the volume on the monitors all the way down or turn them off (both located in the back, not practical ) to unplug the adaptor otherwise it pops like crazy. But I'm shopping for a Duet...Not that expensive and really worth the investment IMO.

[Darth Tater]

You should definitely upgrade to a sound card if you're looking for quality. There is a stunning difference between onboard sound and a card like the Asus Xonar or an Auzentech card (steer clear of SoundBlasters).

They will still most likely have 1/8" out as well, as you mentioned a simple 1/8" to RCA cable is all you need. XLR might require another step of connections...I have some RCA to XLR cables which work fine.

[Jazzydave]

I have the AV40s and love them - they're perfect for what they're designed for. I'm using an iMac 24 so my only option is the 1/8" out right now. I am, however, using a high grade 1/8-RCA cable though to minimize noise in the signal path.

Upgrading a PC's soundcard is a cinch and even the lower priced ones are usually better than the onboard electronics. Check out newegg.com. That's where myself and most of my geek friends get our products...