Mark over at Designtechnica explains why you should not fall for the 7.1 hype and why 5.1 surround sound is adequate for most homes. Makes me feel a bit better about my measly 5.1 setup ;)

"It has convinced many consumers to buy new receivers and more speakers. But it has also undermined the 5.1-channel standard, which is more appropriate for the home, slowing the acceptance of surround sound in general."