[Wydz]

Buddy has a pair of a40s hes willing to let me borrow to see if i like them
 
However, one thing I'm concerned with is if they will sound fine on my laptop
 
I'm using a $400 HP laptop (HP G7-2323DX) with Dolby Advanced Audio.
 
Is Dolby Advanced Audio supportive for 5.1 or 7.1? Or will they sound horrible with my laptop?

 

[squallkiercosa]

I can't talk about that model sound quality in particular however headsets in general are designed to sound well directly from laptops and other sources.

 

[Wydz]

Is dolby advanced audio the same thing as dolby digital live?

 

[squallkiercosa]

Marketing names. Don't trust everything you read or see. Music shouldn't have any effects or enhancer whatsoever, it supposed to be clear. 
3D/surround effects are something else. 
 
If you're looking for headphones check this guide
http://www.head-fi.org/t/534479/mad-lust-envys-headphone-gaming-guide-updated-9-2-2013-sony-ma900-added
 
About the technology there's not much information available (gimmicks)
http://www.head-fi.org/t/365277/silent-cinema-dolby-headphone-comparisons
 
Here's a few threads about the Astro
http://www.head-fi.org/t/451819/dolby-headphone
http://www.head-fi.org/t/461785/an-in-depth-headset-round-up-review-turtle-beach-hpx-astro-a40-sennhieser-pc-350
http://www.head-fi.org/t/644416/keep-astro-a40s-for-gaming-or-not