USB Speakers (READ ONLY ARCHIVE)

[DRosenthal]

I recently purchased a Z Cinéma audio system, and while watching videos online (such as youtube, hulu, or netflix) the sound is amazing. It's loud, the bass is rich, and the overall experience is very enjoyable. But when I watch a DVD (through Windows Media Center, or Windows Media Player) it becomes very quiet. The strong bass goes away completely, and it's worse than the old 2.1 set-up I had before. Has anyone experienced similar problems? Or does anyone know of any solutions? Thanks, I just feel I should be getting more out of this great system 

[phaedrusiszen]

I have not.  I too like the speakers, even though the software is a little wonky. 

First thing that comes to mind is that if you're watching a DVD vs. the other inputs is that it's using 5.1 mode.

I'm not saying this is a fix, since 5.1 mode should work, but what happens if you put the speaker type as a stereo setup?  Do DVDs work properly then?

[Mike_M]

Hi,

These are 2.1 speakers. Windows only sees stereo speakers, not 2.1.

If you set your system to believe that 5.1 speakers are connected when in fact you have 2.0/2.1 speakers what do you think will happen?

[phaedrusiszen]

Not for nothing, Mike_M, but these are billed and sold as having a virtual 5.1 channel features.  I have mine in 5.1 mode right now and they work just fine.  

[DRosenthal]

First of all, that was an extremely condescending remark, and I'm slightly offended. Secondly, I have changed the settings on my computer multiple times (between 5.1, and 2.1) without hearing any change at all. And obviously windows is able to output a higher volume, as I have gotten it to do through other programs (such as through the internet, or itunes, listening to music). What I'm asking, is if there is a better DVD playback software to watch movies with, that takes better advantage of these speakers. 

[phaedrusiszen]

I use PowerDVD and it works quite well.  I think they have a demo you could try.

[Mike_M]

Hi,

They are billed as delivering SIMULATED 5.1 sound via software.

There are only 3 speakers.

[DRosenthal]

That's great, but i still don't think you've offered a solution. Anything come to mind for me to try?