5.1, mp3 and Ubuntu - is it possible?

I'm considering buying a 5.1 system, and having done a quick search through the forums I understood that people were able to configure their sound output in Ubuntu to play 5.1 DVDs.

I need it to play mp3s though, and I've read in multiple places that mp3 as a format isn't designed to be 5.1, though there seem to be some hacks.

So, before I make up my mind I'd like to know if I would be able to play mp3s in Ubuntu using all the 6 channels.

P.S. I'm using an Audigy2 sound card, if it matters.

Depends on what 5.1 system you are buying.

If you are getting a home surround sound reciever, then it will most likely have Dolby Pro Logic II which is quite capable of turning stereo into 5.1 (even for movies). This is what I use at home.

If you are buying a 5.1 speaker set for your PC and are hooking the speakers directly to the sound card, things are a bit more involved, but definitely possible with Pulse Audio see this thread: http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=795525

hope that helps