QUOTE(autoxerFSP21 @ Mar 14 2006, 12:52 AM)
I don't really see the point in using 1-2 extra surround speakers when all the games and movies are encoded for use with only 5.1 channels.
All in all, your probably right, IF money is very tight, but...
DTS ES, DD EX, THX EX, and to a lesser degree, DPL II, IIx and DTS Neo:6 are becoming more and more common. Also, even with 5.1 encoded audio, EX decoders will simulate 6.1/7.1 for you. The extra rear channel in 6.1 does wonders for the "transition" effect of rear surround.
Again, if money is really a big issue, go for the Onkyo 5.1, it's definately a name you can trust and one of the very top budget systems, I'm just thinking in terms of next-gen audio at a very affordable price.
EDIT : uh oh typos!