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6.1 vs 7.1 speaker configuration

Posted by Joe Murphy Jr (A) on April 25, 2004 at 22:00:57

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)

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