Well, I am trying to solve a simple problem: upgrading from 2.1 to 5.1 channel.
I would at the same time want to stick to RPI and OpenElec (maybe buy a RPI 3) since it is cost effective and suffices my needs for a media center.
But since RPI does not give me digital output nor gives me 5.1 channels, I need to add something there.
Plus I need to buy the actual speaker set.
And finally, since I watch a lot of YouTube on the TV itself, I would need some way to connect the new 5.1 channel speakers to the TV (maybe via optical or HDMI).
Edit: I do not wish to buy an AVR costing 30000 Rs and then 5.1 channel speakers costing another 15000 Rs.
One thing that you surely need is a 5.1 speaker set. Now to drive this, you need a 5.1 amp. These two are the absolute basic requirements. HDMI from RPi has 5.1 Audio + Video. Easiest is to get an AVR that will help you split the signal for TV plus power your speakers. If not, then you can get this: Digi+ . Send the HDMI to TV directly and then connect the digital audio out to a 5.1 channel amp to power your 5.1 speaker set.
All this can be easily done via a simple HTiB from Yamaha. You could also look at the classifieds if on a low budget.
Yamaha Home Theater Package Yht-196 - Price: 24,857
Can connect the HDMI to this setup and begin to enjoy
OR
Logitech Surround Sound Speaker System Z906 - Price: 17,756
Get DIGI+ mentioned above and connect the digital audio out to Logitech's digital Inputs(Optical or Coaxial). HDMI in this case goes straight to TV. In Kodi, reroute audio away from HDMI in the menu or select the combined option as per your preference.
MaSh
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