5.1 is absolutely ok.
5.1 means that the TV is able to controll the following speakers:
- center
- front (2)
- rear (2)
- subwoofer
In 7.1, in addition to the above channels, the TV controlls a "left side" and a "right side" channel.
To start off, 5.1 will be enough
Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life. - Berthold Auerbach