chewie.
with respect you would do better recording as many tracks and types of acts as possible and really understanding audio engineering.
i'm still trying after many many years. it takes work and dedication.
also read up on the "greats" of the recording industry like bill putnam and owen bradley. youll learn a lot. read up on the record plant.
lots of info on the net. read up on the history of the great rupert neve and many others. understand "the roots" of the industry and the pioneers.
7.1 is just mixing to discreet channels. lots of info on the net.