Surround 5.1 Mix

Hi, I'm about to mix 5.1. My PT manual is version 5.0 but using 5.1 with Mix+. Can anybody tell me how to convert from Stereo mix to 5.1 Mix session without losing automation, FX settings ... Because 5.1 mix is just an optional tracks for my clients, so it's not very important, I only wish to do a re-panning 5.1 in existing stereo mix. Please help. Also...will 5.1 session take a lot of DSP power ? Best regards Sonny

I just did my first 5.1 project and encountered the same problem of not starting the mix with the right settings. After completing the stereo mix you should create a new session and select the box for 5.1 mixing on the same page as sample rate etc. Then import the tracks to the new session. The best way is to reference the audio rather than copying the whole lot again. This brought in all the automtion and fx settings for me. Mixing in 5.1 does use more DSP because you have the surround mixer. I think this uses one slot?

Thank you all for the response. I think I got what I want I have 1 more question hope any expert about DVD authoring or Video Post productions guys will help,... If I want to delivery 5.1 master along with regular stereo track to Authoring or post house, will I require to do sync exactly time for both 5.1 and stereo tracks ? If so, what kind of format is standard ? Aiff ? wav ? or I will have to record all tracks to Tascam DA88 or DA78HR (24 bit) ? I heard that Tascam machine are standard in Post house, is that true ? In short, as a sound engineer, do I require to do that kind of stuffs or they (authoring, post) will do it for me ? all I have to do is Mix and supply them with raw PCM files ? I had bad experience with my local Video post guy, they don't care about audio, they transfer audio with cheap mixer thru analog and the sound always distort, eventhought their Media 100 has a digital audio port but they don't know what's it all about ??? when I ask to do a digital transfer, they use CD 44K transfer to video without doing any sample rate convertion, I think you already know the result . Please help !!! Best regards Sonny