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I rarely use center channel with processor

I set up my processor, nad m17 v2i, so that I can alternate between six channel or five channel(without center). I’m finding that my mains which are B&W 802D3, don’t really need the center channel for most streaming. I am biamping with tubes and solid state so that may be helping the quality

The vocals come through just fine on the main speakers.  Overall things sound better. It’s easy to toggle back-and-forth for purposes of excluding the center.

Does anyone else not use a center speaker because it is better to use only the mains?  I will admit I occasionally use the center channel sometimes when I need the vocal sound to come through better but it rarely happens. 

emergingsoul
ghdprentice's avatar
ghdprentice
9,512 posts
 

If you are talking about playing music through your home theater system, then just allowing it to act as a stereo can sound better. If movies, then probably not. In movies more than 80 of the dialogue comes through the center channel. and you're looking to recreate something usually created in 360 degree sound. 

erik_squires
17,585 posts
 

PS - I've experimented with the use of analog matrix systems to extract a center, including Dolby Surround/ProLogic and PL II.  Among them by far the best sounding for music was the DTS Neo:6 system.  Really sounded great and with a center channel gave very realistic imaging. 

Of course, use what you'd like, the point is enjoyment. 

emergingsoul OP
1,552 posts
 

I think maybe what it gets down to is the nature of how the recording was done. If the engineers did a good job with five channels and isolating voices in the center channel then it may work out. But if they mix a lot of non-voice stuff in the center channel and let a lot of voice stuff inappropriately mix into the main channels it mixes things together in a bad way for sound purposes.

Also if you have a system that resolves detail really well that's really impactful too and you notice these things.  

So it gets down to quality of the recording and whether you truly have a good multi channel recording.

buellrider97's avatar
buellrider97
1,000 posts
 

  Back in the day my surround had JBL fronts , Klipsch Heresy II rears and Klipsch RC center and a pair of subs. I had a very early Oppo that played SACD. If I used a standard cd , I set it to stereo. I collected concert DVD’s and stereo through 2 or 4 speakers was preferred. In retrospect I ONLY used the center speaker for movies.  

jrareform's avatar
jrareform
202 posts
 

OP what surround media are you listening to for surround?  DVD? I'd agree with those here that are saying two channel music (plus maybe subwoofers on) will typically give the best results for stereo recorded music.  Although I do know some serious audiophiles that use a center channel, I know none that use full surround for two channel music.  Of course you can enjoy your system however you want.  Just curious if you're pushing two channel music to your surround via a surround algorithm or if youre using surround formats for your media playback.

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