How To Create 5.1 Surround Sound Audio

What's Needed to do 5.1 surround mixing?
(Go Here for AC-3/DTS Playback and Listening options)

There are quite a number of hardware and software based surround sound systems. Equipment/Requirements

Software/Computer Based 5.1 Surround Mixing

1. Computer Requirements
2. Software Applications and Plug-ins
3. Multi-Channel Sound Cards
4. Input Devices (Joysticks)
5. Power Amps and Studio Monitors
6. Monitor Controllers

Hardware Based 5.1 Surround Mixing

1. Mixing Consoles
2. Digital Recorders
3. Bass Management
4. Monitor Controllers

Mastering in 5.1 Surround
Dolby Solutions for DVD Authoring/Mastering (off site dolby.com)

SACD and DVD-Audio

AC-3 and DTS Software Encoders