It plays in 2.1 until it obtains the codes to play in 5.1 unless you physically put it to play in 5.1 by right clicking the speaker icon-playback devices-click on speakers-properties-enhancements-setting-and locate the type of surroundings that you would like to hear. If you have the realtek HD audio manager installed, then just double click on that-select sound belongings and select the surroundings that way.