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6.1 vs 7.1 speaker configuration

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Joe Murphy Jr

In Reply to: Integra DTR vs. Yamaha HTR posted by dtb300 on April 25, 2004 at 09:34:42:

There is a problem with using a 6.1 speaker configuration. Sounds that come from the back/rear surround channel, if done using one speaker, can cause a weird ear-brain phenomenon called front-back reversal. Sounds which should appear from the rear of the room may appear to come from the front of the room.
The way around this is to wire two speakers, usually in series, to the single back/rear surround channel speaker output. The two speakers are spread out on the back wall (usually by a few feet) and sound that is supposed to come from the rear of the room always comes from the rear of the room. Some so-called 6.1 receivers actually come with two back/rear channel speaker outputs, so this is not a problem. But if you have one that doesn't, you now know the solution. A 7.1 speaker setup does not have this problem to begin with.
And when you do choose a receiver, I'd suggest one that not only has a 7.1 speaker output but Dolby Pro-Logic IIx processing as well. Just be aware that Dolby has allowed manufacturers to use IIx processing in 6.1 receivers (in my opinion, a poor decision by both parties involved), thus continuing a speaker output configuration that should have never been implemented in the first place. And to make matters worse, by allowing a 6.1 speaker output configuration they have negated the best use and major selling point of IIx processing -- 7.1 unique channels of audio.

http://www.dolby.com/Consumer/Technologies/PLIIx/ (Open in New Window)

Follow Ups:

Re: 6.1 vs 7.1 speaker configuration - DTB300 05:30:58 04/26/04 (5)
Thanks for the info on 6.1 vs 7.1
As you saw in my follow-up to myself, I am looking at 7.1 receivers now, and more than likely in the Yamaha line to try to keep the wife happy :) So far the RX-V2400 looks like a good choice for my situation and setup. Time to check out the local stores here that are Authorized Yamaha Dealers to see what kind of price they will do for it. I have time as I plan to purchase near the end of May when I have the $$$
Later....Dan
- Re: 6.1 vs 7.1 speaker configuration - vulcanman 11:12:30 04/29/04 (4)
  FWIW ...
  I just purchased the HTR-5760 online. I basically use it as a pro/preamp since I have external amplifiers for all 7 channels.
  DPIIx on a 7.1 setup is simply awesome.
  My recommendation to most of you is ... buy the lease expensive receiver in a line (HTR-57xx series for instance) that does what you want it to do (in my case DPIIx and memorized settings for inputs) ... and then pair it with external amps.
  The external amps will remain with you forever. The cheap receivers get ebayed every other year.
  I am now ebaying my Denon 2802.
  For the life of me I cannot imagine anyone buying a 5800 series Denon receiver for $$$ and get locked into it for some time to come. Not wise if you ask me.
  - cheap receiver as processor - Joe Murphy Jr 18:11:54 04/29/04 (3)
    Depending on the type of display or video processor you are using, there may be lip-synch issues which will have to be addressed. Just make sure that if you go this route, you get one that has adjustable digital audio delay. Many cheap receivers that have preamp outputs don't have this feature and the video will lag behind the audio.
    - The HTR-5760 has way to adjust audio delay - vulcanman 21:10:38 04/29/04 (2)
      And for $350 .. its a steal ! until the next gizmo comes along :-)
      - Yamaha RX-V650 - Joe Murphy Jr 23:01:02 04/30/04 (1)
        
        In Reply to: The HTR-5760 has way to adjust audio delay posted by vulcanman on April 29, 2004 at 21:10:38:
        
        I was looking for a cheap do-it-all receiver a few days ago for the living room system. The RX-V650 and the HTR-5760 are basically the same, except for chassis lettering and authorized dealer issues. Both can be found for $350 - $400 on the internet and have just about every feature one could want in a receiver.
        Of course, we're not talking about a High-End product, but for a second system these receivers can't be beat.
        
        Re: Yamaha RX-V2400 - DTB300 05:55:53 05/05/04 (0)
        
        In Reply to: Yamaha RX-V650 posted by Joe Murphy Jr on April 30, 2004 at 23:01:02:
        
        After looking and reading all I could, I really like the RX-V2400. And feeback from those about the 2400 are nothing but outstanding unit. I could buy the 5790 from BB or some other low chain store, but the 2400 can be had for around 750.
        Later...Dan

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