{mosgoogle}Designtechnia has an column up telling you why 7.1 srround is overkill for the most homes. Personally, I think 7.1 is not enough. I've experienced 14.1 before at the 2006 CES and man! That was something else.

Home Theater expert Mark Fleischmann explains why you should not fall for the 7.1 hype and why 5.1 surround sound is adequate for most homes. From the article: With the marketing of 6.1 and 7.1 surround, the industry has decisively outwitted itself. It has convinced many consumers to buy new receivers and more speakers. But it has also undermined the 5.1-channel standard, which is more appropriate for the home, slowing the acceptance of surround sound in general.

Read the full article here.