Can you use a 7.1 receiver/processor for a 5.1 system? (1 Viewer)

I'm still trying to understand HT a bit more. I only want a 5.1 system in my home. However, most of the pre/pro these days are either 6.1 or 7.1. Would I still be able to use these in a 5.1 system?

I am currently in the process of picking up a Parasound 2205A. Please point me in the right direction. I don't mind buying a used component so any suggestions of a new or used pre/pro for a 5.1 system would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Yes, you would.

Any disadvantages?

Only advantages, really. You could upgrade to a 6.1 or 7.1 system in the future with more amps/speakers.

Yes, the ability to upgrade by just adding speakers is a very significant value. All you need to do is be sure that you tell your receiver that you have no 6th/7th speaker, and you're good to go.

So, can you have a 7.1 reciever and use it as a 6.1 reciever? Would you do this by changing a setting on the reciever menu about the number of speakers connected?

I'm not familiar with specific receivers, and how they deal with 7.1 outputs, etc, there are a lot of ways it can be done. But you can guaranteed do 5.1 on a 6.1/7.1 receiver. the thing with 7.1 receivers, they could be two outputs in mono, which is 6.1, with the recommended dual backs, but often there is processing such that those two added speakers get slightly different info. I can only assume that you could configure 6.1 on a 7.1 receiver, but again specifics may well vary. And it is strongly recommended to use dual rear backs, to eliminate the reversal effect. I do this on a 6.1 receiver.

Thanks for the great info.

Now, which processor/receiver should I get to go match the Parasound 2205? Should I stick to Parasound or would it be ok to mix/match brands when it comes to amps/preamps? What do you recommend?

George,

I'm thinking of going with the Rotel 1066 processor. What do you think of that with the Parasound amp?