Best "pseudo" multi channel from 2 ch sources

Meiwan wrote: If you are playing redbook cds mainly, the centre/rear channels will just be duplicates of the 2 main channels.

Not so. There are many systems that will extract ambiance information for surround and interpolate a center and these include the ubiquitous Dolby and dts processes. However, the OP is advised to try them before buying since they vary considerably in their capabilities and configurabilities.

Kal

IMO I have found no processor that surpasses the Angstrom 200.
I have the Anthem d2v processor, but for 2 channel sources I still use my Angstrom. It provides a fuller sound stage than just 2 channel alone. It also produces great 2 channel as well. There was one listed on AGON a day or so ago. PS, I have a $2000 DAC that does not out perform the Angstrom!! However, this unit a ten years old does not have the latest bells and whistles, but for DTS and 2 channel surround, it excels.

Either the Spread Spectrum Technologies Trinaural processor or the Miles Tech M86 (5 channel) or the M44 (3 channel) processor will do what you want using a 2-channel source. Both of these are analog domain processors; no need to go digital if you don't wan't to.

Full disclosure: I'm selling a Miles Tech here.

In HT, the center does more work than any other channel. The rears do the least. You can get away without a sub if your mains can handle the work.

I ahve an Emotiva UMC-1 preprocessor ($699 brand new with 5 year warranty) and it does a very good jo of synthesizing multi-channel from 2-channel sources. Just engage either Dolby PLIIx (Music or Movie) or DTS:NEO6 and have at it. Both of these can sound quite good with a proper source. I have found the effects to be quite pleasing and well worth a listen.

However, the UMC-1's DSP modes (Stadium, Hall, CLub, etc.) sound like real crap, zI never use them.

-RW-