7.1 Audio

For those of you who have 7.1 setups, how worth is it?

Also, do you think that studios might start releasing true 7.1 titles more often in blu-ray (regardless of format war)?

I mean, it would be great to be able to take advantage of the new technology and new receivers that can convert HD formats.

:

Quote:
For those of you who have 7.1 setups, how worth is it?

A bit overrated right now IMO, until they mix the sound a bit better for them - like not just discrete sounds, but especially the "panning effects". Right now, it just evens things out a bit around you for a better "enveloping effect".

Quote:
Also, do you think that studios might start releasing true 7.1 titles more often in blu-ray (regardless of format war)?

There is no format war. And yes, I think 7.1 titles will probably slowly increase and their mixes will improve as more people adopt 7.1 systems. I don't know if it will ever be "mainstream" though.

When there is a 7.1 soundtrack thats well mixed, its awesome. For 5.1 I actually spread the rear speaker mix to the four rear speakers andit think its a richer sound.

I use the Surround THX 2 sound mode and you can only really tell the difference with THX certified movies. Other than that, most 5.1 movies do fairly ok when heard on 7.1. My 7.1 video games sound very good though.

I agree with the above. Not too many movies mix with 7.1 in mind. BUT
there are a few out there that make having those extra channels soooo worth it.

Plus most 7.1 receivers have enough enhanced sound fields to make having 8 speakers fun.
I personally love those that incorporate presence rear front speaker and 7.1. When placed correctly they can make make popcorn flicks sound amazing. If I was shopping for a receaver I would look for that AND Dolby & DTS HD.

I don't think you will see much in the way of soundtracks mixed for 7.1
7.1 surround is a completely impractical set-up for anyone but those with dedicated home theatre rooms. Most people out there aren't even using 5.1 because their wife won't let them fill their room with speakers and cable...7.1??? Forget about it.

I have my home theater set up in my basement, and even I cringe at the thought of expanding from 5.1 to 7.1

I thought 6.1 tracks sounded fine if the speakers were placed properly. 7.1 will probably sound good (as it should on HD audio tracks) but I don't know how much of an improvement it will be over 6.1.

Hey whatever happened to 7.2? Wasn't that supposed to be the next big thing?

Quote:
I have my home theater set up in my basement, and even I cringe at the thought of expanding from 5.1 to 7.1

Me too. My 5.1 living room setup in balanced perfectly as far as I am concerned. If I were to move up to a 7.1 hdmi system, I'd have to replace my Denon 5.1, buy two more speakers to match the current rears (if I can even find them), rewire, reposition, rebalance, etc. All of this for a little more "fullness?" No thanks. I'm happy with things the way they are for now. My A-35 is configured through the analogue outs as will be my future BD player. I enjoy movies, not flutzing around with new equipment and changing things just for the sake of change.

I have a 7.1 capable receiver, however I only use 5.1 and all I hear is bitching about it if I ever try to enjoy a movie as I would in the theater (but what I have to hear is just fine I guess). So I understand how practicality is an issue in most households, even those capable of 7.1.

I think I'll only ever use my additional channels as a "Zone B" outside or something, but even with speakers and wires hidden in the walls, I think 7.1 would be too much for my tastes, unless I have a huge dedicated home theater, then I'd do it - if you can get away with it, absolutely go for it...you may as well get the most of your movies if you can.