I posted a week ago that I was considering the Epic 80 Home Theater package (M80ti, QS8, VP150, EP350) with a H/K AVR 7200 receiver and you have all provided great feedback. Since then I have been doing some research and have come across the Outlaw 950B/755 stack. The reasoning behind this is the concern of possible "clipping" and/or clarity issues based around having not enough power to run the Axiom speakers.

So I ask the obvious question... Which would be the "better" solution?

I would appreciate any suggestions... and please... no need for the "it really depends on your ears" disclaimers. Trust me... I know.

Sincew the M80s are more sensitve than the rest of the Axiom line (and many other speakers), you shouldn't encounter a problem with clipping from the H/K, which is a pretty powerful receiver, in its own right. In other words, the M80s require less power to play loudly than speakers with lower sensitivity.

However, since you keep objecting to the 7200, I would guess that you really have your heart set on separates. If that's the case, go for it!

Tree,
Check out this article written by Alan (if you have not already done so).
It will give you an idea of just how much louder (or not so much louder) you could get just based on power specifications.
That being said, if you do play music at very loud levels and like to push the envelope, the more power will be beneficial in regards to the starting point for distortion. You should get a couple of decibels more cleanly with the separate components, but again, this would only occur at the very high end of SPL.
With my Onkyo 797, i have been able to hit the 103-104dB range (8' distance) with my M60s before distortion/clipping sets in. I would not recommend anyone listen to sounds at such levels, nor allow their components to drive their Axioms to such levels. If you really want more sound, you will need MUCH larger amps and bigger speakers.

Tree, Outlaw makes nice equipment and you would certainly enjoy it, but the H/K will deliver the goods for you.