5, 6, 7 channel and the future

[infinitiqx4]

How many channels would you plan for if builing a system from scratch now? Where is the future of the media?

[goingganzo]

i dont think for the futhure it will go past 7.1 in home theater but there is 10.2 in develpment. so maybe in 5 years it will be out. but the more channels the more money you have to dish out. so what would be better a 5.1 with good speakers or a 10.2 with cheap speakers.

[infinitiqx4]

Do most 7.1 receivers allow 5.1 mode? I assume so, but its hard to find that out online.

I'm looking at a Sony 4 ES 7.1, but running 5.1 for now. Can always upgrade later this way... assuming the 5.1 works!