Surround - VLC 2.2.6 vs any newer version

[pzych0]

Hello,
This thing has boggled my mind for some time.
The thing is when I play surround test samples on 2.2.6 they all play out just fine and in correct channels.
But if I upgrade to any newer version, somehow the rear surround channels gets mixed up.
I recently tried playing a 7.1 test sample and here the Ls and Rs plays in both L+Ls and R+Rs which has always been the problem.
However with the 7.1 I now found out that the Lsb and Rsb plays in the Ls and Rs.
On 2.2.6 the 7.1 test plays all surround channels in the appropriate L and R channel.
What is the difference with surround on 2.2.6 and newer versions that could make this odd phenomenon?
Since 2.2.6 plays surround test samples correctly its highly unlikely to be codec, software (apart from VLC), hardware or amplifier related.
So far I've been staying on 2.2.6 ever since, but it is kind of a pity that I cannot have the newest version because of this.
If anyone have any idea and are able to help I would appreciate it.
Thanks.