Thanks for all of the great responses. I am most interested in the debate between the QS series vs the direct radiating as a rear center. When I called Axiom regarding my original M2i vs. M3i choice, they pointed me to the M2i without hesitating. I mentioned it specifically as a dedicated rear center, and they did not mention the QS series at all. Truthfully, I didn't even consider the QS line, thinking DR would be the only way to go. Might the QS series do a better job acting as a rear center?

I am choosing they 6.1 over the 7.1 for aesthetic reasons. Is the gain from 2 rears worth the added space consumed? Thanks again for your help.--Andy

How about a VP100 back there

Well....dang it.....that is another idea I haven't even considered. Though y'all are getting more expensive with each recommendation. How 'bout I mount a pair of M80s to my back wall? Just kidding, does the vp100 really make sense here? Or am I still looking at reflections putting the sound in front of me?

Yeah, I'm wondering that for myself.

Currently running 5.1, but have a speaker cable in the back wall for 6.1 when/if I want to do it. My receiver is 6.1.

I was thinking of another QS8 for the back surround, but maybe a VP100/150 might be better (and cheaper).

Room is 24x36.
Listening couch is centered 14 feet from the short wall, which puts the back surround 22 feet behind the couch.

Hmmm...