Anyone going Phantom Center Channel?

On the other hand...there is a school of thought that 2-channel material is improved by using a derived center channel. I belong to that school, and have belonged since before multichannel was invented.

But I refer to music. Where video is involved the difficulty of placing the center speaker is a significant consideration. Especially if the center speaker is to be the same make and model as the main speakers (which it ought to be).

My response is to only use a center channel for dialogue heavy movies, and SACD. I elevate the center channel on another stand for multi-channel music, it is matched with the front speakers and it is important to precisely match the levels and height. Otherwise, it is best to do without the center. With orchestral music and a proper set-up of the center, it is better, with a holographic wide front image. Multi-speaker set-ups are frought with problems and are develish to get right!

Great responses. Yes, I have thought about running phantom center channel for a while. If you are going to do it properly your surround system has to have it as an option or you will loose all the voices without a center. With the dispersion of the A-1's I thought they would be optimal for phantom center setup.

As an earlier poster mentioned, matching the A-1's to a proper center channel might be tough, I actually have considered purchasing a single large maggi, laying it sideways on the floor and running it as a center. There is also the Martin Logan curved center which is a nice piece (hybrid ribbon and small cone) but I think I might try it without a center first to see if it's better than with.

Rears I am planning on using a set of the C1 maggi's but someone mention dipoles which might be an option. Anyone using the C1's maggi's for the rear? I wanted to stay planar/electrostat for the whole system for matching purposed but wouldn't be apposed to going dipole. I was just concerned about the match though it may not be nearly as important for rear fill.

Concert video will be watched in 2 channel most likely as well as music only so it would only count for film.

Lance_s...Laying a Maggie on its side is a no-no! When I ordered my three Maggies, and the dealer explained that I would be using one for a center channel the manufacturer threw a fit until it was clearly stated that it would be in the upright position.

Just remember unless you use the exact same speaker for the center as you do for the mains - then it is automatically a form of compromise....for a single viewer or a couple on a sofa well back from the speakers then Phantom is the lesser of evils,IMHO. Of course phantom is a form of compromise too...