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2+2+2 Multichannel

I just bought two DVD-A discs put out by a German Audiophile recording outfit called MDGD. They use the six available channels differently.

They use the Left and Right, Front and Rear channels in the usual way. But then they call for two additional front speakers, located above and outside the regular front speakers. These are driven by the Center and Subwoofer channels. It is all supposed to produce a "3-dimensional" sound field, with no particular "sweet spot" for listener location.

I have not yet had the time to jury-rig this setup. The printed material that came with the discs does not provide much in the way of description of this 2+2+2 scheme. Does anyone out there have any info?
eldartford

Showing 5 responses by unsound

unsound
7,310 posts
 
I've never heard a properly set up Ambisonics system. Has anyone here? If so would you please describe your impressions? How might it compare to this?
unsound
7,310 posts
 
The only times I've enjoyed a center channel is when it matched the other two channels, was appropriatley set up and was playing recordings that had a discrete center channel in the mix. I'm surprised Mercury hasn't rereleased their vast originaly recorded three channel library in such a format.
unsound
7,310 posts
 
Dave, thank you so much !!! Stuff like this could actually make me grow out of 2 channel. Very good news indeed.
unsound
7,310 posts
 
Eldartford, I'm glad your happy with it. As for me I haven't heard one example that wasn't disappointing. It is of no concern to me whether its done digital or analog, though I suspect it would be easier to do well with digital. Sogood51's post had me thinking about speaker placement for 3 channels for the first time ever. I'm surprised at myself. I really didn't think I ever would, at least not for a long time. Please let us know what results you have with the 2+2+2 set up.
unsound
7,310 posts
 
Eldartford, my gut instincts tell me that you are right on about 3 channels working better than other multiples over 2. I have to admit that a 2 channel LP having that abilty would be a huge surprise to me. Sounds very interesting. I have never owned panels (though I almost bought Maggies). I always wondered what would happen if you put two pairs of panels back to back. It sounds like you have the capability. Have you tried it? Would you consider trying it?
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