We spoke about this last night a little. If you look at the picture, it looks like the speaker does sit on top of the stand. I guessing people on here will say the sound will be fine...QS8's seem to be forgiving placement wise, but I wouldn't think it would hurt to have it on something.

As far as your fronts, after what I've been reading I'd give the M60's a demo...if you can fit them in your budget. Sounds like detail and fullness all rolled up in one!