Thanks very much for a clear and well-considered answer. I pretty much figure that so long as I have anything near the set-up that I have, there's not much more to be done. I have a Samsung TV and a Samsung Home Theater. For most sound, either it comes either from the "smart Samsung H-T System" or the Verizon Cable Box, and of course, both give 5.1 (the H-T is actually 7.1). But there doesn't seem to be an easy answer unless I want to change the Home Theater, and while I know the H-T is not in the same league as a component system, it's still very good; good enough for my living room. So for some things I will live with 2.1. I like TV, and I love the effects when something sounds like it's coming from behind you on the right or left, particularly when it moves, but still - it's only TV, only entertainment, and while it's certainly interesting for me and enjoyable for me, it's not going to take over my life. Many years ago - circa 2003 - I bought a component system (I had money then, it was before divorce and alimony), and the Denon receiver could create simulated 5.1 sound, which - to my ears - was really extraordinarily good. I thought that it's been 13 years, surely those electronics should be in something cheaper and easier than a high end receiver, but I'm wrong again. And I'm still paying alimony.....