IMO, 7.1 is much more desirable than simply nice to have. You don't hear of many users reverting back to 5.1. The 5.1 to 7.1 matrixing software continues to improve as do the 7.1 mastering technics.
When I first went to 7.1 the shortcomings of the dipole speaker were glaring in my room. Depending on the dipole design your not depending on a back or side wall reflection for the rear channels. With discrete rear channel speakers aimed at the listening field the room correction timing is more controlled which can be very beneficial for irregular shaped rooms. locating the side speakers requires the most trial and error to taste. I've had good results using "Master Commander" bulray.
If your lucky enough to have a large HT room evenly spaced speakers require much less room correction if at all. In this scenario the benefit of matching speakers can be more evident.
Analog two channel always has a more relaxed presentation then even the best digitally converted source material I've heard. Adding more conversions as with home theater is simply brutal to me. This could be a good reason to get the most from the source material with high quality playback components. I've installed seven HT systems for family and friends of varying budgets. For the last three I used seven $98 Pioneer SB-C22s and focused on better subwoofers with great results and satisfaction.
Its just TV,
When I first went to 7.1 the shortcomings of the dipole speaker were glaring in my room. Depending on the dipole design your not depending on a back or side wall reflection for the rear channels. With discrete rear channel speakers aimed at the listening field the room correction timing is more controlled which can be very beneficial for irregular shaped rooms. locating the side speakers requires the most trial and error to taste. I've had good results using "Master Commander" bulray.
If your lucky enough to have a large HT room evenly spaced speakers require much less room correction if at all. In this scenario the benefit of matching speakers can be more evident.
Analog two channel always has a more relaxed presentation then even the best digitally converted source material I've heard. Adding more conversions as with home theater is simply brutal to me. This could be a good reason to get the most from the source material with high quality playback components. I've installed seven HT systems for family and friends of varying budgets. For the last three I used seven $98 Pioneer SB-C22s and focused on better subwoofers with great results and satisfaction.
Its just TV,