Why is 2 Channel better than multi-channel?

true...I should have been more specific and said multi-channel music, not necessarily 5.1 discrete as you mention. I would never recommend anyone not include the center channel for SACD or DVD-A playback.

A center channel is not a full range speaker, so, naturally, it would only be fittign to use one in prologic surround theaters.

We all have a pair of ears which has 48 auditory canals, looks like the industry is trying its best to reach the ultimate goal of offering 40.8 channel HT system, I will wait for that patiently. Until then, I will continue to use the 48 auditory canals in my ears to create the surround sound effect from the 2 ch system.

Viggen,

Definitive produces a full-range center speaker....
As does KEF. Cant remember the model numbers but there are full range "Center speakers" out there.

I think im going to skip the "Center speaker" all together and add full range identical to my fronts.

I personally like to keep all 7 speakers identical.

Quad,
Man, if they come out with a 40.8 system, im selling everything and will buy a bose accoustimass, then get myself brainwashed so i forget i was ever in this rotton hobby. :)

The holy grail is a cohesive soundfield with holisonic acoustical presentation that allows the listener the freedom to occupy that space without trying to suspend his disbelief that he is experiencing a mechanical event. We all are seeking that " you are there presence " that sitting before live musicians affords. After the mastering of the equiptment chain and learning the specifics of speaker placement we are left with the most compelling issue that is inescapable: the damn room and its effects on our work. The decades of slaving over just 2 speakers has been replaced by the near impossibility of integrating 4, 5 6 7 or god help us , more speakers in that same space. We have been so reluctant to utilize dsp for fear of corrupting the purity of our work that much r and d was lost . Tact came along and shut most of us up. Rives is taking the lead too and we all need their help as the equation expands . My audio listening prowess dramatically increased as i have spent countless hours working on my own multichannel system and I swear , my Aerial 20 t s sound just fine all by themselfs thank you but still I forge ahead seeking that grail myself. Maybe we just need something to occupy ourselfs as most of us here on this site are focused or obsessive already and it keeps us interested in our hobby. I neeed to wash my hands, again.