? for those who have converted to 7.1

[dkg999]

OK, I'm taking the plunge and converting from my current 6.1 system in my apt. to a 7.1 system. I plan on purchasing either the Yamaha HTR-5790 or Rxv-1400 receiver in the near future. I also picked up a new pair of RTi6's at CC for $150/pr new on closeout. So the 7.1 system will have for speakers:

CSi40 front center (powered by Outlaw M200)
RTi70 mains (powered by HK PA2000)
FXi3 - side surrounds - mounted 2/3 of the way to the back of the room and at about 5 to 6 feet high
RTi6 - rear surrounds
PSW505 - front left corner sub
PSW303 - rear right corner sub

The side and rear surrounds will be powered by the receiver. I'm using Belden 12g wire for the mains and front center, and still using Monster 16g for the side and rear surrounds. I use interconnects, toslink, etc. from either bluejeanscable or AR Master Series. The current Yamaha HTR-5660 and RTi38's and RTi28's and CSi30 will go to the master bedroom system.

For those of you with 7.1 experience, what am I overlooking or should consider doing?

[Dennis Gardner]

Your proposed 7.1 setup looks solid. Either Yamaha will give you flexibility. Unless you have used front and back subs before, I would test them in different placements including side by side or stacked. Front and back subs can be difficult to balance.

The only other consideration would be if you intend on using this setup for DVD-A or SACD multi-channel music. In this case, I would choose a direct radiating side speaker like your rear 6's.

[dkg999]

Dennis - I have been using the front/rear subs for a while. Yes, they can be a challenge to balance. The folks here made me a believer in the value of an SPL meter. Because I live in an apt. during the times of the month I work in IL, I use the two subs running at fairly low levels to increase the overall bass presence in the room. Works really well!

I don't have much interest in the DVD-A or SACD. I really enjoy my old two channel setup. Thanks for the help!

[Dennis Gardner]

Sounds like you're setup then. I use FX speakers set to dipole for side surrounds and really like the 7.1 for movies. I have the following: RTi70 mains, CS350 center, RT/fX sides, and RT55 rears.

You will no doubt fill your room with great sound!

Dennis