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Why is 2 Channel better than multi-channel?

I hear that the music fidelity of a multi-channel AV Receiver/Integrated amp can never match the sounds produced by a 2 channel system. Can someone clearly explain why this is so?

I'm planning to upgrade my HT system to try and achieve the best of both worlds, I currently have a 3 channel amp driving my SL, SR, C and a 2 channel amp driving my L and R.
I have a Denon 3801 acting as my pre. Is there any Pre/Proc out there that can merge both worlds with out breaking my bank? Looking for recommendations on what my next logical steps should be? Thanks in advance.
springowl
darrylhifi
498 posts
 
Because God gave us two ears. If he gave us 5 , then multichannel would be better.
mceljo
1,357 posts
 
Darrylhifi - Do you only eat one thing at a time because you only have one mouth? Cereal must be dry!
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,705 posts
 
Darrylhifi's comment "Because God gave us two ears. If he gave us 5 , then multichannel would be better" is:
1. Unoriginal
2. Indicative of ignorance of basic hearing mechanisms
3. A red herring of no significance and intended only to annoy.

Pick one.

Kal
macrojack
1,303 posts
 
Stereo is an illusion supported by our natural triangulation of our ears and the source. This provides location and certain cues (clues) as to the nature and characteristics of the sound source. Our eyes perform similarly to identify size, distance, color, etc. of visual counterparts. More info is not necessarily better. I find it confusing. But, then again, I have no use for absurd special effects in movies. If people leaping tall buildings in order to slap the face of an opponent is your cup of tea, I can see why you might enjoy 5 or 7 or 21 different channels of sound raining upon you from all directions.

To each their own.

Long ago I noted that children make most of their assessments and valuations on a quantitative basis. I'm sure the term gazillion was coined by a child.

As we mature and evolve, we tend to appreciate qualitative distinctions more, even to the point of disregard for quantity. Let's hope that is in your future.

kr4's avatar
kr4
3,705 posts
 
06-06-11: Macrojack wrote:
Stereo is an illusion supported by our natural triangulation of our ears and the source. This provides location and certain cues (clues) as to the nature and characteristics of the sound source.

True but incomplete. Triangulation is only one part and a simplified one, at that.

Our eyes perform similarly to identify size, distance, color, etc. of visual counterparts.
Again, a grossly simplified analogy but, fwiw, you can hear what is behind you but you cannot see without turning your head.

If you don't like (or have never really experienced) good multichannel, fine. Specious arguments should be avoided.

Kal
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