Thanks for the suggestions all. Good to know about the breathing room for the ports, that was one of my main concerns.
Since this will not be a surround system, I think I'll start with 2 channel or maybe 2.1 and see how it goes. If we want better dialogue I can always add a center channel later.
Dakon - you make a fine point on her possibly not having the same requirements as guys do - but I'm happy to say my mother-in-law enjoys the SVS PC-Ultra 13 sub that she has in her dedicated HT in the basement (which she budgeted for in spite of her husband's objections)!
