Kevin, I have lived through the conversions to stereo, 4 tracks, 8 tracks, quad (various formats), cds, sad cds, etc. The original idea was reproduction of "sound".
I think I have been through at least 4 (maybe 5) surround systems. The only recording/show/movie/film that impressed me was one of those stupid Star Trek spinnoffs.
All it adds up to is big corps wanting my money. The notes don't change, nomatter how much money you have to spend.