5.1 Channel Input
Home A/V Connections Glossary
5.1-channel, 6.1-channel, and 7.1-channel inputs
These preamp-level analog inputs can be found on the back panels of some home theater receivers. A 5.1 input features jacks for 6 channels: left front, right front, center channel, left surround, right surround, and subwoofer (sometimes called "LFE" or "Low-Frequency Effects"). Because the LFE channel carries a limited range of frequencies, it's the ".1" in 5.1. A 6.1 input features the same jacks as a 5.1 input, but adds a back surround jack; a 7.1 input adds two back surround jacks.
Any of these multichannel inputs allow you to hook up a separate 5.1-channel surround sound (Dolby® Digital, DTS®) decoder, such as those built into some DVD players. You can also use these inputs with newer, cutting-edge 5.1-channel music sources like DVD-Audio and SACD players. The extra jack(s) in 6.1 and 7.1 inputs have no current functionality unless you happen to be using a separate surround preamplifier with 6.1 or 7.1 processing — the main function of these extra jacks on a home theater receiver is to keep you ready for future gear and future surround formats.
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