connecting laptop to receiver help

[mr-scarface]

I've connected my laptop to my TV with an HDMI to DVI cable so that I can watch movies.

Now I need to connect the sound.

I have a 5.1 surround connected to a receiver. So I just need a way of connecting my laptop to the receiver via RCA.
My laptop has a standard mic port and headphone port. What kind of cable do I need to get? Note that I want to be able to get dolby or DTS sound as the movies are all in dolby or DTS.

Thanks in advance.

[redwudz]

Unless your laptop has S/PDIF outputs, you likely won't get 5.1. That needs a coaxial or optical audio out. For stereo, just get a 1/8" (3.5mm) stereo phono plug to a R+L stereo phono plugs. Available at most stereo stores.



(The one pictured has RCA jacks and you add RCA male cables.)

Or if you really want 5.1, there are PCMCIA audio cards that may work with your laptop that have S/PDIF output. One example: http://www.soundblaster.com/products/product.asp?category=1&subcategory=205&product=10769

[mr-scarface]

ok i'll try this.

but when you say I won't get 5.1, do you mean that only 2 speakers will work and the sub won't work either? how does stereo sound work when there are 5 speakers and a sub?

[edDV]

ok i'll try this.

but when you say I won't get 5.1, do you mean that only 2 speakers will work and the sub won't work either? how does stereo sound work when there are 5 speakers and a sub?

Many laptop manufacturers offer a dock option that may include an S/PDIF port. You can also get PC cards with S/PDIF out but the laptop needs to be able to direct audio from the HDMI port to the second audio card. Check your manual or call the laptop company tech support.

Otherwise you need to buy a HDMI capable audio receiver that can strip audio off the HDMI input and then feed the TV. If you intend to play Blu-Ray or other HDCP protected media, the audio receiver needs to be HDCP capable and licensed.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HDCP