Monitor Connections (Newbie Qs)

[Hoox81]

I just received my Wharfedale 8.1a's from Deepwater and am having the time of my life. I can't believe how clear the stereo field is listening to these puppies. Granted, I was using old Yamaha Keyboard Speakers for monitors before so my baseline isn't all that.

Here's my question (or two):

1. The Wharfedales came with speaker grilles. Should I keep them on the speakers or take them off and put them away? Are there any pros/cons either way (like if I have them on, am I missing some frequencies)?

2. My PC setup has *gulp* a SoundBlaster 5.1 as the soundcard. Yes, I know this card sucks but I've had success with it so far. The thing is that the outputs are 1/8 stereo. The Wharfedales have balanced inputs (1/4 TRS and XLR) and unbalanced RCAs. Which connection method should I be using? I believe I currently have a stereo 1/8 in plug to two mono 1/4 plugs (which I believe would be unbalanced, right? -one ring on the sleeve).

Thanks in advance for dealing with my ignorance.
Hoox

[Hoox81]

Very nice dealing with you (even though I was in complete panic mode until the Wharfies arrived).