Am listening in mode Multi Ch. Stereo, as to me it just fills up room more. Have tried 2.1, but to me just not enough in room. I also like the Virtual DSP Mode which doesn't sound to bad either. Some songs off of Pandora, like LoverBoy that I thought would kick it up, just are lacking in any mode so it seems to me. The EMO XPA-5 new is $900, and back ordered, and will drive 200 Watts RMS at 8 Ohms into all five speakers. Seating is 10 ft. from the CC/TV.