how to upgrade to 7.1 surround? (1 Viewer)

[BrianEK]

I have an Onkyo txds797 receiver that has 6.1 channel inputs and is cabable of 7.1 using an external power amp.

currently i have a single surround back connected straight to the receiver, so i imaging i will disconnect that from receiver and connect two rear speakers to the external amp, and run a stereo audio cable from "surround back pre-out" on receiver to external amp. does that sound right?

and another question...

I am not looking to spend much money (or any if possible) so my question is if i would be able to simply use my older stereo receiver I have sitting unused in the basement? or does it have to be a "power amp".

 

[Frank Zimkas]

.....run a stereo audio cable from "surround back pre-out" on receiver to external amp. does that sound right?

You got it!

As for using a second receiver to drive the rear speakers, I guess that it might work but it would be more of a hassle than it's worth. Calibrating your system would be a more complex than usual, and maintaining the proper volume of the rear speakers in relation to the other 5 would be a pain.