what do i need to connect a surround sound system to to tv. As in an amp, or something like that?

You will need a basic standard receiver, which also acts like an amplifier, and some audio cables running from your TV to your reciever. You usually can pick up a good used one on craigslist.com ! --

By connecting a surround sound you will have a home theater affect. You may also be able to place the speakers away from the TV. I have one and it is great for sci fi movies!

you can purchase boxed surround sound systems for relatively cheap prices. different manufacs ship them with different cables.

your best best is to get the sytem and then determine what cables you will require.

the two main possiblities would be composite audio cables (one each left and right audio channel from receiver to tv) and speaker cables one per speaker to receiver.

you need a reciever or something like that