surround sound just for CDs

[roger_harr]

Hi - I've just bought a complete HIFI and surround sound system off Ebay. I don't intend plugging it into the TV as this is in a different room. My question is, is it still worth setting up all 6 speakers (2 front, 2 back, one central and one subwoofer) to play CDs and listen to the radio? Are CDs capable of playing through a surround sound system, or should I just stick to the 2 front speakers. The CD and amp is Arcam and the home cinema box is Yamaha and the speakers are all B&W, so talking some serious kit I guess. Just not sure if its worth setting it all up just for music without the TV.

Cheers

[Potatoman]

Personally i wouldnt bother. The reason being is that radio and cd's are just stereo, ie just the front 2 channels. DVD audio most likely would be in surround. Defnatly install the subbox - this gets its signal from the front left channel, and filters out the mid and high (treble) notes, and just kicks out bass, so you dont need a 5.1 (5 speakers (also called satellites). The .1 is the sub) source to hear it.
Having said that, your new hifi likely would send signals to the back speakers. But, these will mirror the front 2 channels, and wont be 'seperate' like the left and right channels are. If its in a large room, then you probly will hear the difference with them set up. But, for example in a bedroom, it is a bit pointless.
If you get any problems, post back and let me know. By the way, yes it IS a serious piece of kit!
All the best PM.