[quote user="homerpovey"]Just to confuse matters I'd go with a 6.1 system. There's not much 7.1 material out there or not much I've come accros anyway. Just add another centre speaker at the rear and I'm sure you'll be more than happy with the results and it'll save you a few bob. Not sure what the two rear speakers would do in a 7.1 set up playing a 6.1 track but I doubt it'd be much different.
Just my two pennies worth
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Except it doesn't tend to save you much (apart from the extra cable), as extra surround speakers are typically sold as pairs rather than singles.
I used to run my Yamaha 'Z9 surround amp in its full '9.1' mode - two extra presence speakers at the front. Superb stuff in really atmospheric films...
Still running a 7.1 set-up - as Andy says, it just adds to the atmosphere and excitement. If your room/partner/budget will allow it, go for it - there are only going to be more 7.1 HD mixes on their way.