How common is 7.1 surround sound?

Question

I know there is 7.1 surround sound, but all I see is 5.1 ?

Answer 1

I don't understand the question.  Are you asking how many people have 7.1 systems or wether or not a lot of formats support it.?

Either way, 7.1 surround is becoming increasingly more popular in home theater setups because of the audio capabilities of high-definition disc formats.  That being said, not all blu-ray discs have a supported 7.1 track on them.  Many of your newer, action movies will, but most older movies will only incorporate a 5.1 track.

There really aren't a lot of 7.1 home theaters in a box(htibs).  A vast majority of those are 5.1 systems.  If you want a 7.1 system you will need to buy the receiver(a 7.1 receiver) and speakers seperately.

Answer 2

If you are asking how easy is it to find Movies or other things that are recorded in 7.1, there is only one place so far; Blu-Ray (some HD-DVD as well, but that format has died).

Quite a few Blu-Ray's are being released in 7.1 sound.  They either send 7.1 PCM or DTS MA 7.1.  

Answer 3

About as common as finding a McDonalds in outer space.

Answer 4

On DVD media and systems not so much however on blu-ray almost always has both 5.1 and 7.1 available.

So if you are looking for a new system go for the 7.1 set up.