JG writes:
Is it possible that a surround system could facilitate the production of great sound with less physical intrusion into our shared living space? A significant challenge we face with two channel is providing space for our left and right speakers. Perhaps a surround system properly configured could utilize in wall or “book shelf” speakers to achieve similar or better results.
F writes ...
I believe I have made these comments somewhere else in reply to this 2 channel question: I believe that all 2 channel recordings have all of the ambient content that is necessary for complete listening pleasure without the added channel (5.1 etc.) gimmickry; that being said, in order to extract that ambience something has to be done to eliminate inter-aural cross talk inherent in the 2 channel systems which narrows the 2 channel sound field. I have added 2 Rear speakers which are connected to the front right and left amp outputs going through a passive matrix (this is not the Hafler circuit) connection that literally creates surround sound with only a 2 channel system; no added amplification necessary. I can listen to ANY recording and or watch any DVD, or TV movie and get blown away by the realism. When I invite people over, and encourage them to bring there own favorite recordings, they are just stunned by the sound. (The only comment I would add about movies is that some (new) movies are surprisingly devoid of any 2 channel content; as with everything, including audio recordings, some are just better than others).
RA writes:
80-90 % of the sources that run through my stereo set-up are multy channel capabele sources, TV settup box, Apple TV or the Amazon like alternatives, BluRay player, which provide surprisingly good sounding CD quality, MS X-box, Nintendo switch, and other great game consoles and yes I play vinyl too. But talking about family live, it’s only very few moments in this phase of life that I get the rest to enjoy that.
I assume high end manufacturers, with top products and services like PSAudio wish to do their customers a favor and allow them to enjoy their high end (and yes, high cost whichever way you look at it) stereo system most in order to provide maximum sound for their bucks.
So why do todays DAC’s or digital not provide multiple HDMI inputs, with video throughput. Spouses do not react too well to having their partners spend 12k+ on a nice looking and hopefully even better sounding stereo system and yet put a different looking mostly more ugly bulky AV receiver next to it in order to be able to enjoy the majority of resources. I know, fees apply adding that feature, but the point is, unless I can find a stereo system wth those HDMI inputs and unprocessed video throuput, my Yamaha receiver, set up to provide bi-amping to my full range floor standing Canton Vento’s stay. I believe that the separate DAC,s, or pre-amps and power amps will sound better and would really like to enjoy them, but the extra real estate and boxes required combined with the cost will not be approved for aesthetic reasons.
