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Nine channels is a handy number when you’re putting together a home cinema system. A nine-channel AV receiver will suit a great many users — not too many channels, but not too few. And that’s what the Marantz SR6014 home theatre receiver offers. And there’s also support for 10th and 11th channels as well, should you need them.
Equipment
Why nine? Well, in the pre-Atmos days, I was a firm 5.1-channel guy. I’ve never been a fan of the rear surround speakers which spread the width of the effects in the home. Too much wiring for diminishing returns. In a theatre, rear surround helps localise centre-rear sounds for those patrons who find themselves seated near side walls. But in your home? Well, not needed in my room anyway.
So with the arrival of overhead speakers for Atmos and DTS:X, I’m satisfied with 5.1.2 (two overhead speakers), but I do genuinely prefer 5.1.4. The more expansive overhead soundfield does add something noticeable. And with its nine channels of amplification, the Marantz SR6014 can deliver 5.2.4 from its built-in
