Adding Dolby Virtual surround to 2.1 system?

[project86]

I'm posting this here because I know it's kind of a goofy question.... most people hate any kind of virtual/simulated surround processing. I had a chance to use Dolby Virtual in my setup recently, and found it worked great for movies. I assume it is just my particular room setup coupled with my low expectations that made me enjoy it more that most people seem to.

Anyways, say someone has a decent 2 channel or 2.1 setup, just using a stereo receiver. Is there a cost effective way to integrate Dolby Virtual processing into a system like that?

I only got a chance to try it using an optical input while playing DD encoded DVDs... I don't know if it works with standard 2 channel analog inputs, or not.

 

[Seth=L]

In most cases, at least when I have tried it, stereo sounds best. It usually has a more complete sound and if your speakers soundstage well there should be enough ambiance.

 

[MDS]

Anyways, say someone has a decent 2 channel or 2.1 setup, just using a stereo receiver. Is there a cost effective way to integrate Dolby Virtual processing into a system like that?

Cost effective? No.

You would need an external processor with Dolby Virtual Surround (if they even exist) and your stereo receiver would have to have pre-outs to feed the processor and main-ins to get the processed sound back to the receiver for amplification.

A far cheaper alternative is a new av receiver with DD/DTS and matrix decoders like PLII and Virtual Surround already built in.

 

[project86]

Cost effective? No.

You would need an external processor with Dolby Virtual Surround (if they even exist) and your stereo receiver would have to have pre-outs to feed the processor and main-ins to get the processed sound back to the receiver for amplification.

A far cheaper alternative is a new av receiver with DD/DTS and matrix decoders like PLII and Virtual Surround already built in.

I actually do have pre outs and main ins, which is why I was hoping such a device existed. And I'm not ready to drop big $$$ on a new receiver just to get one feature that I want. Oh well, I'll be OK without it I guess.