Any ideas how I could hook up my Paradigm monitor 9's directly to my computer? These are my ex home theater speakers . The only option I know of is buying a receiver but I'm trying to keep costs to a minimum. That said, my objective is to use this set up as my upstairs stereo utilizing my 5000 songs on my computer.

Thanks guys
Cam

At the very least you need an amp. Decoding could be handled on the computer.

If this is two channel music only I would suggest picking up an older used receiver. Lots of people are upgrading to newer receivers so there are lots of good deals (less than $100) around.

Yeah, I got my secondary receiver for less than $100 on eBay. It's just a 40 or 50WPC stereo Marantz, but it does the job.

Not to mention, without a receiver, there is the small issue of RCA level inputs and the speaker level inputs on the back of the speakers.

A small amp or receiver is the way to go.

Yes it is two channel music. Thanks for your input, I'll be on the hunt for a receiver/amp but unfortunately it will be a little bit more expensive than I wanted because I wouldn't want anything less than 120W per channel.

A while back, I picked up a Sherwood receiver from Radio Shack for about $100. Used it before I got my avr for home theater. It puts out 105 watts per channel. Very plain jane receiver but was able to push my M3's to ear bleeding levels. Not sure what you are looking for, but I believe they are still available at that price. Also not sure that 120 watts per channel vs. 105 watts per channel would get you much more. Hope this helps. Good luck with your hunting.

I agree with merchman. I also missed out on a local deal (through ebay) on an older 125w yamaha. It went for $35. The 100wpx Sherwood ended up costing me around $75. There are good deals to be found if you are patient.

120WPC?! for computer speakers? What are you doing, playing games from 12 feet away?

Maybe hes like one of the guys I work with who breaks out his 100w Marshal stack to practice with in the basement. Perhaps he wants to "make his skull vibrate" as my buddy puts it.