Disgression 2: 7.2 Channels

 

7.2 Channels

Since 7.2 is really just an extension of 5.1. Just bear in mind that it's likely at one time or another that you maynencounter another two or more channels, and that these fully"behind you" channels are not as important as the other fiveplus. You can create a similar directionality bynmanipulations of the signals fed to the primary five surround channels

All 7.2Channels

Full 7.2 channels, Gradually we're going to work backwards, going downwards incomplexity and number of channels, until we reach classic quadraphonicsound (and a couple of amusing variations), and the best way to configure that 40 year old system.

Full Film Mix Surround Setup --5.1 Channels

Note that the LS signal is being fed also to the two or moreLR Surrounds, ditto for the RS signal to the right. If you won't beplaying full range, wide dynamic sounds over the LS and RS channels, allthese can be smaller surround speakers as has become typical in theaterssince the 70's, well, even back 20 years before that. Then you can replacethe large LS and RS speakers as shown above with something that matchesthe other rear speakers. Your choice, and also depending on what equipmentwill be used in the final theaters, a best guess. Since many moderntheaters have sufficiently wide range auditorium speakers to play nearlyas wide ranged (dynamics and frequency response) as the screen speakers,perhaps the setup shown above will be the most useful way to hedge yourbets, and not compromise what you do in the mix.

 For those ofyou who are only going to be listening, perhaps at home, this is still avery practical "target" plan. You'll probably only have a single pair ofthe LR/RR speakers, these might be dipole designs, and they will get thesame signal as your side speakers, perhaps at a somewhat reduced level.It's once again a matter of "trust your ears". Take an approach and try itout. You can't beat the practical lessons gleaned from experimenting withseveral alternatives before you decide the leave things more or lesspermanently in place.