What is a Surround Sound Receiver?

A surround processor, or receiver, may produce 6, 7, or 8 channels of output, depending on the source and type of surround processing. The basic surround format (“5.1” surround) includes three full-range front channels (left, right and center), two full-range surround channels (left surround and right surround), and a low-frequency, or subwoofer channel. Because the subwoofer channel carries only the lowest octaves compared to the five full-range speakers, it is called the “.1” channel. A “6.1-channel setup” adds a separate full-range “center back” speaker to the 5.1 array. A “7.1”-channel system includes two “back” channels in addition to the surround channels.

Speakers - The number of speakers required depends on the type of system you wish to install. A 5.1 is 5 speakers 1 subwoofer (The subwoofer is always the .1) All of the speakers don't need to be that big . Because the subwoofer carries much of the low bass energy, the other "satellite" speakers can be compact and visually unobtrusive, no larger than a hardcover book.

5.1 Surround Sound - 2 front main speakers, 1 front center channel, 2 rear surround sound, and 1 subwoofer

6.1 Surround Sound - 2 front main speakers, 1 front center channel, 1 rear center channel, 2 rear surround sound, and 1 subwoofer.

7.1 Surround Sound - 2 front main speakers, 1 front center channel, 2 mid-room surround, 2 rear surround sound, and 1 subwoofer.

Subwoofer (the .1 channel of all surround sound systems)- No surround sound system is complete without a single subwoofer. Don't be afraid to have multiple subwoofer's - Larger rooms typically will have "Dead Spots". You will notice this if you will sit in one area and have great sound, but if you move it disappears. This can be fixed by adding an extra subwoofer to the room. Typically having 2 equal subwoofer's on opposite corners of the room, will fix any dead spots.

Layout: - The layout of a surround sound system is the most important part. If you do not place the speakers in the proper locations (Or close as possible) you may defeat the point of doing it at all. See the Images below for the ideal surround sound system layout.

Dolby Digital 5.1 Setup:

Dolby Digital 6.1 Setup:

Dolby Digital 7.1 Setup: