can 7.1 surround sound card play 5.1 surround sound?

[darsunt]

All the new sound cards I've looked at are 7.1 surround sound cards. I only want to create a 5.1 surround sound system.
Can you run 5.1 surround sound from these new sound cards? I would think the card drivers have that option

thanks

 

[joelm3103]

I don't know much about audio and stuff, but I would assume it can play or at least give the effect of 5.1 surround sound. Also you may want to give us a lil more information as what sound card your using . May be others can guide you through some steps or something of the kind.

 

[Hefemeister]

yes they do. Have ran 5,1 off of many 7,1 onboard and soundcards.

 

[C0RR0SIVE]

7.1 sound cards can almost always put out 5.1, as they still have to handle mono/stereo/2.1

 

[darsunt]

Thanks. Good to know I can happily buy the latest sound cards. I just don't have time or money to set up 7.1!