Why is 2 Channel better than multi-channel?

But where are the decoders Martin?

Other than Meridian gear, which is very very expensive, I know of no end-user decoders.

Of course there is G-Format, but there is very little content available in G.

Maybe we should start an "Ambisonics Primer for Audiophiles" thread?

02-10-10: Ledhed2222
But where are the decoders Martin?

Please read what I wrote. For B-Format, free ad hoc software decoders are available. Decoding B-Format in software has been made very straightforward.

Also, the more than 200 pieces available at Ambisonia.com are all available as DTS DVD file images. Any of these can be burnt to a DVD and played on a DVD player.

Finally, you can also use software to decode UHJ, but it is not as neatly packaged as the B-Format software decoders. Decoding UHJ requires the use of wide-band 90 degree phase shifters. In the digital domain these are usually implemented using convolution. This can be done using available tools, but it is not for the faint hearted.

Regards,
Martin

Martin - What you need to realize is that you were 15 years ahead of the crowd 10 years ago. Ambisonic will be complete nonsense to the majority IF they even pay you any attention. Its an uphill battle the IMO isn't worth the effort.

Have at it bro!! Fight on!

I'm not a big fan of multi-channel and it may be because of my age (over 60). Two channels make sense for music because that is how it is listened to: i.e., singers and musicians are in front of you and not all around you. I see multi-channel as more related to home theater and movies and not music. With that being said, I also accept that we all have our own preferences. Just read the different opinions on speakers, cables, amps, etc. on Audiogon.

Well, I've reviewed a lot of responses to this thread, but still pose the question in terms of "upgrading". First let me say I spend 50% of the time listening to music, with the balance being 30% movies and then 20% televison/sports. I;ve always enjoyed B & W speakers in a much-appreciated 2 channel system, powered by the famous c320bee amp and its nad brother single cd player. Now I face the prospect of changing to a system powered by a denon 3310 a/v receiver to accommodate the thirst for movies (first time buyer of the denon brand and a/v breed).

I wonder if:

1) the same sound quality will be found in this denon a/v receiver (what hi-fi 4 stars) powering a pair of b/w 602 s3 bookshelves and center htm 61 for movies... versus

2)the c320bee for 2 channel (versus 3 channel) audio through the same speaker set - up..