Hey Ian, I know I did at least 12 recalibration tests on both of my 500 (which I received about 6 months ago) and 350v3 to get them setup properly. They both have excellent output, but it took quite a bit of trial and error on moving them around to get the sound I wanted. My room is very square like with a bit of "L" on the back part.

I wonder if there's a possibility that he might be getting what sirquack was getting with some type of voltage loss?? Just a guess.

2 = M60,4 = QS8's,1 = VP150,1 = EP350,1 = EP500
HK247
Optoma HD70,110" DIY screen
Xbox360 & PS3