Thank you for the replies!
I agree, I will go with the 7.1 setup.
Where should I place the side surrounds in relation to the listening area? Directly to the side or back a little bit. And what about the rear surrounds?
Thanks for the advice. When I get more pictures, I'll post them. And I will have some questions about the sub, receiver, and fronts soon:)
Micah: I am hoping by getting y'all's input early and often, I can avoid that that "oh crud" moment:) I'm doing my best to enjoy the project; however, living in the house during the remodel gets really old! Not to mention I still have holes into my attic and it's supposed to be -3 on Thursday:(