Finally Experienced Multi-Channel SACD

skrol

Since I didn't have the capability to do otherwise, I only listened to my SADC's in Stereo. Recently I configured a rather humble HT system comprised of a Denon AVR-888, Marantz UD-5004, Polk RTA-11TL as mains, CS250s center, S4 surrounds and a PSW-10 sub-par sub. The CS250s actually blends fairly well with the RTA-11TL (RDO-198). The S4 uses nearly the same tweeter as the CS250s.

I spun Nora Jones "Come Away With Me" and Pink Floyd DSOTM, in multi-SACD and was blown away. Often surround sounds like they are trying too hard to show off the surround. This was very natural and seamless. I am really fighting the urge to stay out of the HT rabbit hole but it does make me curious how much better it could be. The sub has got to go though.

Nightfall

I love 5.1 for video games and movies but, for me, 2 channel is where it's at for music. DSOTM 5.1 really is fantastic but I think fantastic 5.1 music is few and far between.

Edit: I guess technically in my case I should have called it 5.0

voltz

Nice one Stan!
A couple of Elton's 5.1 SACD are pretty cool and "Wish you were here" but I agree Nightfall that I mostly love the 2channel SACD's but its nice in 5.1 now & Then.

whgarrett1394

I really enjoy multi channel audio whether it be dvd-video, dvd-audio, blu ray, or SACD. I don't purchase expensive out of print stuff and I always thoroughly review the discs I do choose to buy. I have about 25 or so and I don't see myself getting many anymore. A good sub makes quite a difference.

My next project will be room treatment.

skrol

I tend to be a 2-ch purist. My Volvo has Dolby ProLogic II but I have it disabled and run mainly the front door speakers. Multi-SACD may just be the novelty of it all but for now it is pretty cool.

[Deleted User]

I like'em all depending on the artist, genre. I had all these speakers that I love and had to do something w/ them!

tonyb

I can dig multi channel, but in short bursts. After a while it starts sounding more like surround sound than good 2 channel.

Glad your digging it though, some music can sound exceptional in multi channel. Rock on.

grimmace19

I love the multi-channel options. I wish there were more of them. My system is dual purpose as it is, so I don't feel that i've spent money "elsewhere" to accommodate the sacd option, it's just built in to what I wanted anyways.

whgarrett1394

Listening to Quadrophenia on Blu-ray right now. Pretty awesome.

Just got it and Sailing In The Seas Of Cheese by Primus.

Both have multichannel options.

Also picked up The Cure's Trilogy Blu-ray. A live concert from 2002 where they played pornography, disintegration, and bloodflowers in their entirety.

Should be cool.

[Deleted User]

This is where I draw the line.
I think Quadrophenia should only be played on a two channel stereo
setup.

whgarrett1394 wrote: »

Listening to Quadrophenia on Blu-ray right now. Pretty awesome.

Just got it and Sailing In The Seas Of Cheese by Primus.

Both have multichannel options.

Also picked up The Cure's Trilogy Blu-ray. A live concert from 2002 where they played pornography, disintegration, and bloodflowers in their entirety.

Should be cool.

rooftop59

Certain discs are really fun. Jackson browne's running on empty in surround is really cool. On the acoustic tracks u really feel like u are sitting in the middle of the hotel room surrounded by the band. I can't imagine any 2 channel setup doing that, BUT I haven't heard a truly high end setup. Also blue man group is really fun, a bit of a novelty but fun nonetheless. Not the same in 2 channel.

Now would i set up surround just for music? No way. First as mentioned they r rare and expensive. And I Agree with grimace, I have The dual purpose rigs for TV, movies, and music, so it's fun to get some multi channel music in the mix as well.

whgarrett1394

It is my understanding that Quadrophenia was initially recorded with a quad release in mind. It sounds pretty awesome in MC 5.1 24bit @ 96khz. The copy came with a 24bit 96khz version of the 1973 stereo mix too. Haven't listened to it yet though.

mantis

When you own a surround sound system that is matched all the way around, it's one hell of an experience when listening to multichannel music.
I've been listening to SACD and DVD AUDIO since day 1 and I don't prefer one way over another due to configuration preferences. I like to listen to whatever was recorded the way it was recorded and go with it. Thats why I think having a musical surround system is key.