Center channel questions


I currently listen to my TV sources using a normal two channel stereo. Its very high end but my wife and I often cant understand dialog and other times the sound track background noises and music overwhelm the dialog. Is this because we are missing the center channel information?

I understand the the center channel is dedicated mostly to voices so the addition of a center channel might clarify our problem.

If i am correct I would be looking for a center channel decoder. (I don't want to buy a 5.1 channel system, just a mono amp being driven by a center channel decoder if such a thing exists. Please comment and or make suggestions.
keis

Showing 1 response by noble100

keis,

     Another unique solution would be to buy an Oppo 103 or 105 Blu-ray player instead of an AVR.  Both Oppos have built in surround sound (up to 7.1) and analog audio outputs for each channel.just like an AVR but at least you'd have the added bonus of a high quality Blu-ray player if you don't already own one. 

    This would be very similar to buying an AVR and a center channel speaker but would require the additional purchase of a separate center channel amp (a small and inexpensive class D mono amp would work well for this).  This setup would allow you to control the center channel volume through the Oppo remote and, if you later changed your mind about a complete 5.1 or 7.1 surround system, you could add speakers and amps for a complete surround system.

     If this setup appeals to you, I'd be willing to assist you in the hardware and hookup options.

Just an outside the box solution to consider,
          Tim