Incredible soundstage, two speakers
Jeffgr -- Sat, 11/15/2008 - 23:07
At one time, I had in place a Lexicon surround sound processor and 7.1 channel surround utilizing Kef 105s in the front, Paradigm 5se for the side, Paradigm 3se for the rear and an Axiom sub-centre combo for centre (a huge beast).
I ditched it all (heh, put to other use) for a a set up with just the Kefs in the front and the tv as centre dialogue channel. Reason? my music, which is half of my pleasure was coloured (yes I could bypass when I remembered to) but also the sound stage for films seemed distorted on occasion, as if the processor was unsure where to deliver what, where.
Now I do not fault Lexicon, hell, they almost invented surround technology, I blame the source (the discs).
Where am I going with this? Simply stating that purchasing high quality front end speakers is more important than worrying about 5.1 or 7.1 systems. If you have a high quality set of front end speakers and establish your seating arrangement appropriately, you will have an incredible soundstage that will surpass ANY mid-fi surround system.
"More" speakers does not equal "better" sound.
Just my thoughts.
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Jeffgr is correct, provided that you sit exactly between the left and right speakers.
The center channel really helps anchor the soundstage for those listeners/viewers sitting off axis.
Good post Jeffgr.
Puts to rest the notion of the centre speaker being the most important in an HT system.
The main LR speakes are far more important.
:wink:
I have an ancient pair of BIC Formula 6 speakers that I use with my old fashioned 35" Toshiba Cinema Series. They give GREAT center channel sound over a wide range of seating. New hd coming after Christmas. Since I dont care for movies enough to spend $$$$$ for extra speakers, I'll just keep on with what I've got which to these ears is far better than you would expect.
Jack D II