1) There is a fair bit of 7-channel material (actually 6 channel, if we get technical - the sixth and seventh channels are mono, getting the same signal). Most of it is Dolby Digital EX soundtracks -- Star Wars Episodes I and II, Monsters Inc., Lord of the Rings, and a good number of others -- but there are also a handful of DTS ES soundtracks around as well.

2) If the soundtrack is simply 5.1 (or simply stereo and processed via Pro Logic II), the 950 will produce a surround back signal using Cirrus Extra Surround. It does a good job of it, I think. Basically, any time that you want to be in a surround mode, you have the option of also running the surround backs.

3) I really kind of like 7.1 (or 6.1 in my case, as I have only a single dipole surround back channel). I'm sure others will chime in with their experiences. If you're not sure about taking the plunge, one thought would be to start 5.1 and later add a two-channel amp and pair of back speakers (if you don't mind finding a home for a second amp, of course).

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