Do receivers have 3.1 mode?

[admin_exported]

About to order a denon avr-1611. Does anyone know if receivers have a 3.0 or 3.1 "surround" mode? Thing is that i got a center speaker for free and intend to put it under my tv and use it in a 3.0 system (no sub or rear speakers). Will the receiver work like this or will the center be totaly useless? Not looking for any kind of surround effect ofcourse.

 

[Anonymous]

Most receivers will detect which speakers you have installed and set up as necessary. Should work ok. You'll just miss out on the surround sounds as you know, I presume they get mixed to the fronts.

 

[markyd]

You can run an AV amp in a virtual surround mode such as Dolby Surround which will sum centrally panned (mono) material and output it through the center channel. L/R will continue to come out from their relevant speakers, though usually with a considerably reduced level.

Depending on your center speaker you may find this source position for dialogue etc more enjoyable than the straight stereo

There will probably also be some surround content present, though without dedicated speakers - you obviously wont hear it

 

[Anonymous]

excellent!

Im not interested in surround for this setup but i may get a couple of rear speakers at a later date if i find som really cheap or free small speakers but its not important at all. The system (also a 32" tv and 360) will be used for casual gaming in a small spare bedroom. Wanna keep it guest-friendly so filling it with more speakers than the 3 i have is not really an option.