Thanks for the replies fellas...the help is definitely appreciated...

 Originally Posted By: Mojo
Order the standard black. You don't need to spend any more money unless you're Randy \:\) .


That certainly would be the practical approach...I could always put the money saved into a new receiver...perhaps one of the newer Denons that decodes the new HD surround formats ;).

 Originally Posted By: Mojo
Look at Mojo's Dojo on Axiom's wall of fame if you want to see what standard black looks like in a room.


Nice room by the way!

 Originally Posted By: St_PatGuy
By the way, I like your avatar!


Thanks!

 Originally Posted By: sirquack
I love my Ebony Pica from the custom shop. \:\) Very sleek, no glare for HT projectors, and more expensive looking. \:\)


There you go complicating things! ;\)

 Originally Posted By: sirquack
One question, is why you are not going with Qs4 or Qs8's for surrounds, they will give you an experience no direct radiating speaker can create?


I had definitely thought about going with one of the QS series speakers as my surrounds, but in the end decided that the direct radiating might be better for some of the multichannel music I listen to. I prefer the "preciseness" that a direct radiator offers for multichannel music. The unusual driver configuration of the QS's also factored into my decision. Who knows...I may decide to audition a pair of QS's in the future but for now, I think that the M2's will work well for me.

 Originally Posted By: sirquack
If you do go with Black Oak, you might order from the factory outlet, which will save you 10% more, if budget was an issue in getting the Q's.


The factory outlet might be an option I exercise...although, these being my first "real" mid/hi-fi speaker purchase I really want to get a "perfect" pair, if you know what I mean .

I'm going to try to wait until tomorrow to place the order to see if I get any more advice...right now, I'm leaning towards the Black Oak finish.

Thanks again for you advice guys!