Graeme, it's a good idea when the speaker setup is 5.1(without back surround speakers for a 7.1 setup)that the side surround speakers be placed a little(say 2')farther back rather than directly to the side of the listening position. This lends a little bit of a "phantom" back surround image in the absence of actual back surround speakers. They should be separated as widely as possible on the back wall and about 2-3' above ear level.

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

Enjoy the music, not the equipment.