Just upgraded to a Asus Hero Maximus VII and the 8 channel audio in the back has been giving me an itch that needs scratched. Currently I'm using 2 dirt old Bose full range speakers and an ancient Realistic stereo receiver. I'd like to have at least a 5.1 system and have no idea where to start.
I've been throwing around a few different options and have no idea what to do.
Option 1: Just grabbing a quick PC 5.1 system and plugging it into the back of the computer. However, all of the speakers look so small and wimpy compared to my 2 Bose full ranges and actually feels like a downgrade.
Option 2: Grabbing a home audio setup with a receiver. Though, I know next to nothing about home audio solutions.
Option 3: Grabbing a sound bar. Build a few boxes for car speakers, and putting RE Audio FR or X series speakers in them. I'm extremely familiar with car audio and I know the RE Audio speakers would sound amazing, but my ignorance of home audio about the only reason this is even an option. Building the boxes would be a huge pain; let alone finding a receiver that would put out enough power and be compatible with the oms of the speakers.
Fancy bells and whistles on the receiver mean absolutely nothing to me as long as it puts out a powerful and clean signal, has a volume knob, and has a power button. Though, volume per channel would be nice.
I would prefer option 1 or 2, as long as someone could provide me with decent options.
Budget: $500-$600 give or take.