Old; IMHO, for what it's worth: I tried to figure this out myself not only for the stereo but for the DD/DTS issues as well. I guess in one sense I'm lucky the RX-V1 only offers 2 channel stereo to ponder,sent to 6 speakers & in that you only have the 5 channel (not the new Yam models' 6 & 8 channel stereo).
From what I understand "stereo" = 2 channels. What each brand does with it to produce 3, 4, 5, 6, ... channel stereo I think is a proprietary issue.
Therefore, to actually know in your case would necessitate an answer from Yam. I am not aware of any "standard" which requires a specific dealing with what info is directed where, which is accepted by ALL, when dealing with MULTI-channel stereo. I think it is a matter of filling the numbers of supported speakers, so they are all providing sound. Bye the way I do notice a sound hole, as my Yam does not provide the use of the rear centre in stereo. Although, it may disappear when I move my rear surrounds to the sides.
Dougofthenorth

This message was edited by Dougofthenorth on 12/26/01 18:54.53.