Can someone explain 5.1 surround hookup?

I heard 5.1 music for the first time and I don't think I can go back to stereo. If I purchase a 6 channel amp should I purchase 6 full-range speakers or do I need 5 speakers and 1 subwoofer? This will be used for Audio and Home Theater purposes.

Thank you.

 

Five full range speakers and one subwoofer equals 5.1.

 

All you really need is a 5 channel amp because most sub-woofers have a built in amp in them. You could get a 7 channel amp and go 7.1, most receivers on the market today have 7 channels of amplification built in.

 

Therockman, I am aware of that piece. My thread title is misleading.

I mean is there any rule that I have to use a subwoofer or can I substitute a full-range speaker for it? Will that have an affect on what I am playing i.e. dvd-audio or dvd-video?

 

The tricky part is going to be your cable set-up. If you go high-rez audio, i.e. DVD-A or SACD, then you will need an amplification set-up that has 6 input jacks for analog audio. If you simply go DTS or DD 5.1, then you can use an S/PDIF.

 

The .1 channel is bandwidth limited to a maximum of 200 hz by design, although most material will only extend to about 125 hz in the .1 channel. Thus, a full range speaker will be wasted, and you probably will not get the advantage of a built in dedicated amplifier for the .1 channel.

 

Gamma, get the sub to allow you to make full use of the 5.1 sound.

mud-

 

Thanks a lot guys, your information helps clarify.

 

Most DVD-A capable players will not redirect the .1 channel to the mains if you do not have a sub (thus Sub set to " No" in set-up menu. mains to Large). That may mean a lot or a little depending on how the MC tracks on a given disc is mixed.

For DVD-V content, such players, pre/pros, and AVR's will redirect, but for whatever reason, DVD-A content does not.

If you happen to have the Chesky Ultimate DVD-A you can test this. They have a test track that calls for you to set the mains to Large and the Sub to Off, then they play a test tone that is encoded only on the .1 track. If you hear it, your good, but I do not think I have ever read a post from anyone where their player passed that test. I know my Pio 45a and Denon 3910 do not.

But its all a moot point if you have a sub.

Brian