Over time, as video technology has progressed, so have audio technologies, starting from stereo and progressing to massive 7.1 channel cinematic audio. Over time, output methods and technologies have also changed, evolving from the simple line out stereo plug to the complex and technologically advanced optical out. The system we have here today, the Creative Inspire 5.1 5500 Digital, is almost at the pinnacle of both input and output technology. It can accept optical in and has an external Dolby decoder for the latest in surround sound. It is when using these highly advanced technologies that these speakers truly shine..