Looking to buy first 3.1 system (audio noob)

I see no reason to throw away what you have. You could just get an active(powered) center channel speaker. But the problem is that the sound card doesn't have discreet outputs( argh, hate that) Maybe your mobo sound chip has them.

the Prisoner...

With that sound card(I'm not sure what computer you are using) you only have SPDIF output. So you are limited to speaker system that use that kind of input. What I meant by discrete outputs are sound cards or on board sound chips that use an analog outputs. For example pic:https://www.google.com/search?q=ana...ard%2Fcommercial%2Fgraphics_and_media;500;333

So in terms of what you want, you need a speaker system with SPDIF inputs or a receiver( or integrated amp, pre-amp) that accepts SPDIF inputs. A receiver will power the speakers or buy speakers that are powered.

Wireless rear speakers is a great option since they don't really put out much fidelity sound. Put your money into the 3.1 option since the main speakers and center are the most important for movies. You always can add rear speakers later. Depending where you are in Florida, I would check out a new/used stereo store and see what they have, They are pretty cool about listening to speakers and will probably have something to match up a receiver and speakers. These type of stores have trade in options too if later you want to get something better.

Best thing is to listen to some speakers and not order online and just go to your local indy store. Just tell them what you have and what you are looking for.

the Prisoner

Your sound card doesn't have analog outputs except stereo 2.0. The mobo does have discrete analog outputs (main, center,sub and rears) so that is good and also HDMI output which may be the best option. An idea is to get a receiver and the speaker system. The speaker system is probably ok but since you or I haven't heard them who knows.

Receiver wise, I noticed it is getting harder to find receivers with 5.1 analog inputs and outputs. So HDMI would be the best option. HDMI from the mobo to a receiver HDMI input then hook up the speakers.

In terms of of optical outputs on your sound card, a receiver with both HDMI and SPDIF(optical) and use one or another but there can be problems with gaming using optical output. There are plenty of threads out there talking about optical in gaming and movies only working in stereo. Although with the brand and model sound card that may not be a problem. You will have to research your sound card specifically for 5.1 since some people are still not happy with optical out and prefer analog.

Anyways, it looks like you have some options and BTW Amazon has that speaker system on sale for 328.00. I still recommend if you can to try out a used/new stereo store. Indy stores that sell new/used usually have very knowledgeable sales peoples and work with you getting a good setup you can try out before buying.

Buying individuals speakers is a great way to go but it gets more complicated matching up stuff that sound good together. You have to understand most of these inexpensive 5.1 systems aren't the best quality but if it works for you go for it. I use good quality separate components( amps, pre amps and etc with good quality home stereo speakers.) that I have bought over the years, trading in and trading up.

Happy Listening, the Prisoner.