5.1 channel vs. 7.1 channel surround sound???

Question

I am trying to decidide which type of surround sound to get for my home theater. Please help

Answer 1

5.1 is all that is needed unless you have a very large room.

Answer 2

5.1 gives good surround at reasonable complexity and cost. While 7.1 requires more speakers ... costs and complexity increases .

Lot's of 5.1 program material. While there are some theoretical advantages to more channels (and 7.1 is just one arbitrary option) there is very little discrete program material available for more than 5.1. Some 6.1 and rare 7.1 (although you can usually output matrix 7.1).

That said, a 7.1 receiver gives you the ability (in most cases) to power stereo speakers in one room and 5.1 speakers in another with different material, or to bi-amp the front speakers in a 5.1 setup (Google: "biamp"). In other words you get greater flexibility. However, unless you plan to take advantage I wouldn't spend more than $50 extra to get it. A good discontinued 5.1 receiver may prove to be a better deal than a current 7.1 model (lower price, better electronics).

But if you want maximum flexibility and something "future proof" ... to the degree that is possible ... a 7.1 receiver with HDMI switching and support for HD audio formats is the safe (but more expensive) bet. A prime model would be the Onkyo TX-SR605 (see link) ... middle of the lineup, reasonable price and great reviews. But there are lots of other options for more or less $$, and you won't go wrong if you stick to name brands like Onkyo, Pioneer, Yamaha, NAD, Harmon Kardon, etc.