Regarding going from 5.1 to 7.1:

As I understand it, but please correct me if I'm wrong, the Cirrus mode used in the 950 has 6.1 distinct channels, with a mono signal going to rear surrounds, without adjusting the signal from the side surrounds.

DPL IIx by comparison, adjusts the side surrounds when the rear surrounds are active. Furthermove, DPL IIx supports 7.1 distinct channels.

The Outlaws have yet to announce if the 950 will be upgraded eventually, to support DPL IIx.