Mixing for 5.1 surround...

[skunkyfunk]

Hi guys I have a question.  Since majority of the 5.1 setups I know have at most, 2 large front speakers, and the rest are mini satellite speakers, I was wondering how you should mix in 5.1.  Should it be that:

1)  During a 5.1 Mixing session, the center and rear speakers should be attenuated?
2)  Or, should all the speakers be of the same volume?

As for panning, how much do you use the rear?  Metallica's S&M had the orchestra at the rear speakers...

[mikep]

All the speakers, except for the LF one (s) should be of the same type, power, dimension, etc.  Mixing, vocals are center, music L&R, reverb and other effects are on your surrounds.  LF frequency - bass, etc., on the .1.  This is for music.  For video, voice on center; music and effects on L & R; effects, i. e., atmosphere, fly bys, etc., on surround.  LF rumbles, etc on .1.

What will be you final master?