I have not yet heard a 5 channel SACD demo that sounded like music. Even with extremely high end components in an acoustically treated and properly set up room, it still gave you the impression of "effects" more than experiencing the music. I think it will get better with time, but right now I am not worried about setting up 5.1 in my system.
BTW I also think that a lot of the SACD's that are just remasters of old discs such as the classic rock and jazz from Sony music actually sound no better than redbooks. The biggest difference I hear is in recordings like the new Beck album etc which lose some glare and grain on SACD.
Also I had a Sony 222ES and sold it, terrible sounding on redbooks, so be sure you listen to players closely and find one that will fill both bills. I have heard the new Denon and Yamaha "universals" also and they butcher cd's.
BTW I also think that a lot of the SACD's that are just remasters of old discs such as the classic rock and jazz from Sony music actually sound no better than redbooks. The biggest difference I hear is in recordings like the new Beck album etc which lose some glare and grain on SACD.
Also I had a Sony 222ES and sold it, terrible sounding on redbooks, so be sure you listen to players closely and find one that will fill both bills. I have heard the new Denon and Yamaha "universals" also and they butcher cd's.