In my opinion smooth surround performance is key to multichannel and /or home theater. I've had 5.1 systems with vertical left and right speakers horizontal center and dipole rears. After you get past the whiz bang of a new speakers the synergy of Home Theater systems simply sucks especially when listening to multichannel music. I've had both second hand and personal dissatisfying experience with Emo products.
I've put together modest 5.1 and 7.1 surround systems for a few friends using economical $130. 88dB Pioneer SP-C22's a subwoofer and modest but modern Denon and Integra receivers. More recently using $650. 91dB Triangle Voce's EZ and two Velodyne DD Plus 10" subs.
These are all center speakers placed as close to equal distance and ear level as possible. The 7.1 Pioneer/ Integra system in a spacious basement using very little room correction was a clinic on just how good surround can be when you have the space for matching speaker placement.
I've put together modest 5.1 and 7.1 surround systems for a few friends using economical $130. 88dB Pioneer SP-C22's a subwoofer and modest but modern Denon and Integra receivers. More recently using $650. 91dB Triangle Voce's EZ and two Velodyne DD Plus 10" subs.
These are all center speakers placed as close to equal distance and ear level as possible. The 7.1 Pioneer/ Integra system in a spacious basement using very little room correction was a clinic on just how good surround can be when you have the space for matching speaker placement.