I've had a bit more time to research some receivers. I've shifted from eyeballing the Denon to the Onkyo TX-NR708. It looks to be a lot better value for roughly the same cost.
More on the center channel: I'm not discarding the suggestions I've gotten here about using a M2(s) as a center. However, I do have a 'standard' center in my current setup and it sounds good at various seating positions. How much of a difference does this make? I read a Audioholics article about this type of thing, but with sound is generally hard to say until you hear it, really. In your opinions, would it be *bad* to get a VP100 vs a M2 for the center? If it's that bad, sound will win out over looks but if the difference is going to be minimal, I may still go with the VP100.
One other thing: Custom finishes. How are the custom vinyl finishes? I'd really like a different than stock look, but can't even begin to rationalize +$100 a pop for real wood.
Last edited by NuSkooler; 11/09/10 03:44 AM.