[ssmacc]

Any opinions on the sony X1 system – reading the bumf it apparently reproduces a surround system from two front speakers? I’m guessing it’s not very good but has anyone tried it? A friend of mine is about to buy one, I’m thinking of putting him off and suggesting a true 5.1 system (think he’s reluctant to pull up the carpets and if a two speaker system is anywhere near as good he’ll go for it.)

Thanks for any help

[Astaroth]

I personally havent heard this particular system but...

KEF do do a decent 2 speaker system http://www.kefinstanttheatre.com/indexuk.htm which is very good. Certainly not as good as a true 5.1 but the best immitation I have heard

Another alterative is Yamaha's 1 speaker system: http://www.yamaha-uk.com/sound_projectors/
Very mixed reviews on this one. If you have a perfectly regular shaped room and your TV centre wall (or a square room with the tv in a corner) then it can work well. If you dont meet these "requirements" then the system isnt that good at componsating for not being able to bounce off walls correctly.

[soulboy77]

Denon also do similar 2.1 virtual surround system, one of which has won awards from some of the Home Cinema mags.

- I would recommend you go to a dealer first for a proper demo and then be your own judge.