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How to connect 5.1 speakers to a Mac Studio

I am purchasing an M2 Mac Studio, and I already have 5.1 speakers that were connected via an older Creative DDTS-100, which took the optical audio output from my old Mac Pro and it worked great for surround sound. The use case is simply watching movies and listening to music on the Mac in full surround sound.


I've read everywhere that the Mac Studio supports 5.1 surround, but I can't find a clear answer anywhere on how to connect my speakers to it (since Macs no longer support optical out). I assume you would have to use a USB-based external audio controller, like the Soundblaster X4(?) but I've also read that their Mac software is buggy with lots of issues. Is there no other product or approach that can get me reliable 5.1 output on the Studio? What does Apple recommend for this? Thanks so much.

Posted on Apr 17, 2024 7:55 AM

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Apr 17, 2024 11:26 AM in response to Jmac mac

I do not have that equipment to test, but I would try plugging that setup into a USB to Digital Optical adapter or DAC.

for examples:

https://www.amazon.com/Adapter-Hdiwousp-Optical-MacBook-Samsung/dp/B0CFXWFJ7R/ref=asc_df_B0CFXWFJ7R/?

https://www.amazon.com/Adapter-Converter-Optical-MacBook-Samsung/dp/B0CFXV89NN/ref=asc_df_B0CFXV89NN/?


Choose carefully, because the majority of this type of adapters only support stereo output.

How to connect 5.1 speakers to a Mac Studio

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