How do I connect 5.1 speakers to my VAIO XL301 media centre???

[MarkTheBlue]

Can anyone please explain the best way to connect my 5.1 speakers (Acoustic Energy Aego T's) to my VAIO XL301 media centre, thanks?
How do I get my 6 audio outs - LINE IN L&R + LINE OUT L&R + COAXIAL OUT (will this give me an analogue signal if I connect to, say, the subwoofer??) + MIC or PHONES jacks??
I don't like the idea of having to use front MIC and/or PHONES connectors as this will look messy.
Will I need a 5.1 amplifier? Presumably I can then connect digital in and analogue out?? If so any recommendations???
Have you had this issue and how did you resolve it? Any diagrams or photos would be appreciated.
Thanks for tolerating my stupid questions - you will have worked out by now that I'm no tekkie!
This is not covered in the manual!

[MarkTheBlue]

OK...so now I've spent the afternoon looking into this and it seems that I need a 5.1 receiver/amplifier.
Within my budget the Sony STR-DA1200ES looks exceptionally good value (£299 at Superfi or Richer Sounds) - unless you know otherwise?? Yes, I realise it's got 7.1 capability, so do I get another 2 speakers or bi-wire the fronts (or neither)??
Now, what about a good speaker cable to hook it all up with???
Getting there slowly...

[ChalkyWhite71]

Hello, I've had my XL201 connected to a Sherwood (Richer Sounds own brand I think) Dolby Digital 5.1 receiver/amp for three months now, and it works like a dream.

I only use the optical SDIF out, and the receiver does the rest.

Unless you have a discerning ear, i don't think speaker cable makes a great deal of difference. If you're going to spend an arm and a leg on speakers, then yes I guess don't skimp on the wire.

Regards, Chalky

[MarkTheBlue]

Thanks Chalky and ver cleen ver naas Monza alloys.

Still doing my homework on the cable. QED Silver Anniversary looks like a good combination of quality and value (£5.50/metre at Superfi) and seems very popular. Any advice?

Panasonic TH37PX600 37" plasma tv
Sony VAIO XL301 media centre
Sony STR-DA1200ES av receiver/amp (yes I went ahead and bought it!)
Panasonic DMR-E75V video-DVD recorder (I know, but the kids still have loads of tapes!)
Sky+ (working on the wife to get HD!)
Acoustic Energy Aego T 5.1 speakers
Cabasse 4x40W 6CD autochanger