Audio Systems: 7.1 Channels with Dolby Pro Logic II ONLY, yamaha htr 5740, pro logic ii

Question
Hi Wayne,

I had just recently bought a relatively older A/V receiver (Denon 2803) as my 2-yr-old son had decided to spray water on my previous one (Yamaha HTR 5740).  Both the Denon and the Yamaha receivers have 7.1 channel capabilities however the Denon receiver (which I have right now) does not have Pro Logic IIx.

To my understanding, a 7.1 channel setup on Pro Logic IIx would have the Left and Right rear channels provide a more "distinct" quality of sound in order to really achieve a a more enveloping sound experience.  Most if not all of my reading about the the Pro Logic II technology is about the 5.1 setup and not 7.1.

Since the Denon 2803 has is a 7.1 receiver with Pro Logic capability, I am not quite sure what kind of sound would be coming from the extra rear speakers.  From reviews, it did mention that the Denon 2803 presented a 7.1 setup capability in preparation for other "future" possible formats.  Does this mean that it would somehow figure out the Pro Logic IIx decoding that was not available then?  If not, then what would I be expecting if I did decide to add the 2 rear speakers?

Here is a list of the built-in decoders:  DTS 96/24 , Dolby Pro Logic II , DTS-ES Matrix 6.1 , DTS-ES Discrete 6.1 , DTS Neo:6 , Dolby Digital Surround EX

Here is a link if you want more info about the receiver:

http://www.usa.denon.com/ArchivedAVReceivers.asp?archivedModelSearch=true&clearC...

Any help will be much appreciated. Thanks.


Marcus

Answer
Depending on the processor, you'll probably hear the same thing that's coming out of the surrounds (RS & LS), maybe with a little delay/reverb, etc...

Off of the top of my head, I can't think of anything available in the consumer market that has a native 7.1 mix. This doesn't mean nothing exists, but it's very rare if it does. As far as the "possible future formats" are concerned, I wouldn't concern myself too much about that intangible, The home theater industry is a sticky mess when it comes to things like that. Unusable features on a device equal up to a strong marketing department, in my opinion.

Most people I have contact with use the extra 2 channels as a "Zone 2" where they'll send those speakers off to another room.