Hello, I'm looking to buy a decent combo amplifier+pre/processor for setting
up five channels surround.

However, I do I get the rear two speakers to play the same audio as the
front two speakers when I have stereo input or when I'm running it in FM
radio?

Do I have to look for a specific component for the capability of playing
stereo on four speakers and switch on surround sound on five speakers with a
simple touch of a button?

Please enlighten me...

Thank you

"Al" wrote in message ...
Hello, I'm looking to buy a decent combo amplifier+pre/processor for setting
up five channels surround.

However, I do I get the rear two speakers to play the same audio as the
front two speakers when I have stereo input or when I'm running it in FM
radio?

I think most any Dolby preamp receiver will let you play stereo audio
in some way through all speakers. Keep in mind that much of what folks
listen to (FM, CDs. audiocassettes, VHS tapes, stereo TV audio, etc.)
is in stereo and it makes sense for makers of receivers to provide
features for listening in stereo.

(DVDs are about the only 5.1 audio source most people have and can use
at home, so (IMHO) it wouldn't make sense to only make Dolby preamps
and receivers that would provide surround sound for DVDs.)

A fine choice for listening to stereo audio on a Dolby receiver will
be the Dolby Pro Logic or Dolby Pro Logic II receiver settings. These
will synthesize a surround-sound effect from any stereo audio source.

Do I have to look for a specific component for the capability of playing
stereo on four speakers and switch on surround sound on five speakers with a
simple touch of a button?

I think you should go to your dealer and let your dealer demo some
preamps and receivers, using both stereo (such as CDs) and 5.1 (such
as DVDs) audio sources.

In short, I don't think you've got anything to worry about.

You can learn more by searching the web. You could also try
downloading some manuals for Dolby receivers. I haven't checked
lately, but I think the official JVC USA web site has some manuals for
downloading that would probably answer your questions about typical
ways to handle stereo audio with a Dolby receiver.

Please enlighten me...

Thank you