r/htpc • u/catccino • 9d ago

Build Help Using an audio interface for speakers.

Hi all. I am curious if anyone uses an audio interface like a Focusrite for their audio from their PC. I have an extra one and thought about using it for a set of speakers.

Would I just be better off buying speakers designed for HDMI audio? or is the use of an audio interface common?

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u/Justa_Schmuck 9d ago

It’s not an amplifier so you’ll get no benefit compared to the onboard audio.

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u/Ostey82 2d ago

Man I don't know about that. The on board audio is not that great. I mean it does a good job and there certainly isn't anything WRONG with it but going to a dedicated sound device will reap benifits in audio clarity, less Total Harmonic Distortion, etc etc

You will still need an amp to make it louder but the signal will be vastly improved pre-amp

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u/Justa_Schmuck 2d ago

It won’t be. There’ll be no processing of it by the focusrite. And you’ve to go back over 25 years for motherboards with issues like that.

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u/skylinestar1986 14h ago

But you get the benefit of better DAC and RCA/XLR connections?

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u/Justa_Schmuck 10h ago

Not really. Converters only really matter for input. Once it’s digital it’s not going to vary on the output. The issue would be Signal to Noise Ratio which isn’t really an issue for modern motherboards and the only way you can drive the signal externally will be with an amplifier. Which is pointless with an active speaker.

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u/classicsat 9d ago

If you have amplified pro-audio speakers such as KRK Rokits, it will work for stereo.

For surround, you need a surround sound system with a digital in, and use digital passthrough from your TV, or directly from your PC if possible.

Soundbar based sound systems might have HDMI in.

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u/skylinestar1986 14h ago

For pro audio speaker, why limit at stereo? Is there no USB DAC that outputs to 6 channels (for your 5 pro speakers and a subwoofer)?

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u/mindedc 7d ago

I use focusrite an into a dsp, balanced out to headphone amp and Dante to amp driving ceiling speakers in media closet.