Andrew, I think I've spotted the problem: you're using a DLP mode(which is just for TV screens)instead of DPL. I always use DPLII and it makes even popcrap discs sound better. There's nothing "simulated" about it; it just extracts the surround ambience which is already mixed into the front channels and sends it to the surrounds where it belongs.

-----------------------------------

Enjoy the music, not the equipment.