Murph - I agree with you. I would buy in exactly the order you mentioned, and recently advised a friend to do the same thing who was in the same situation.

It does come down to personal preference, but if movies are your main source and you like the effect of bass in your movies (as I do), a good sub will make a huge noticeable impact to your listening experience, in my opinion more so than the surrounds.

But that's just me... an audition would definitely help you to make the final decision!

Jason

Epic 80-800: HG Cherry