Need Help Connecting Speakers to Computer

[brian1115]

Hi guys I am a noob to audio stuff.  I have these two Kenwood speakers in my basement that have not had much use.  I am planning on building a new computer and was going to get new speakers, but since I have these I might as well put them to use and save some cash.  The model #s of the speakers are in the pictures below.
 
Questions:
 
1.  What cables/connectors do I need to hook them up to my PC?
2.  What would be the possible resale value of these if I decide to buy new ones?
3.  I believe there is a sub that goes with them but I don't have it.  Am I correct?
4.  Do I need a sub to hook them up? and then to my pc?
 
 


 
 
 

 

 

 

 

 

[cel4145]

These look like tower speakers. I don't think there is a matching sub to go with them.

I'd suggest a Topping TP21 or Indeed TA2021 t-amp to drive them. Or pick up a used audio/video or stereo receiver on your local Craigslist. Often good values to be had.

 

[brian1115]

Thanks for the info on the amps, but what cables do I need for them?

 

[cel4145]

Monoprice.com 16 gauge speaker wire would work great.

As for the connectors to your computer and the amp, depends on what can kind of connection options your computer has for audio and what kind of amp/receiver you get

 

[pacislander007]

I would go with this amp, it puts a little more power for those things: http://www.amazon.com/Dayton-Audio-APA150-150-Watts-Amplifier/dp/B000VKXLBO/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1379468370&sr=8-3&keywords=dayton+amp
 
Then, you need wire to complete this signal path:
 
Computer -> Amp (via 3.5mm/RCA cable plugged into the input on the amp) -> Speakers (via speaker wire)

 

[cel4145]

For the money, I'd go with the Sherbourn PA 2-50 instead that is on closeout. Apparently same amplifier as the Emotiva mini-x a-100, with some extra features (remote, two sets of switchable inputs--same parent company sourcing the amp from the same factory). Should be a little bit better grade of amp.

Either way, I'm guessing your computer has a 3.5mm left/right audio output? So just need a 3.5mm to RCA cable.

 

[brian1115]

would either of you recommend the audioengine n22?

 

[pacislander007]

  would either of you recommend the audioengine n22?

NO. Although AE is a great grand, with this amp, you're paying for the name. It's only 22W per channel RMS.. Your speakers can handle more than triple that.

 

[brian1115]

  NO. Although AE is a great grand, with this amp, you're paying for the name. It's only 22W per channel RMS.. Your speakers can handle more than triple that.

 
But by having my speakers ampd more doesnt that just increase volume? sorry noob question.

 

[cel4145]

But by having my speakers ampd more doesnt that just increase volume? sorry noob question.

Right.

That Sherbourn will be a better quality amp than the N22. Go read reviews of the Emotiva mini-x a-100. Same amplifier inside. In fact, the parent company of both Emotiva and Sherbourn has apparently decided to eliminate the Sherbourn brand name and just release equipment under the Emotiva name, which is why the Sherbourn is being sold at such a good price.

 

[brian1115]

What about any products from schiit? like the Asgard 2?  I want something that will look nice on my desk too.

 

[cel4145]

Schiit doesn't sell speaker amplifiers.

 

[brian1115]

Schiit doesn't sell speaker amplifiers.

 
Oh lol

 

[cel4145]

Oh lol

I have an Asgard 2 connected to my Indeed TA2021 that powers my speakers. Is that close enough?

 

[pacislander007]

   
But by having my speakers ampd more doesnt that just increase volume? sorry noob question.

 
 
Right. If you aren't looking to maximize the sound you can get from your speakers, then really you can go with any amp that is aesthetically pleasing.