Thanks J. B. for the advice and link to your system. My system:
Arcam BDP300 dvd/cd
Arcam P777 amp
Marantz AV7701 processor
Monster 5100mkII power cond
Panamax 5100 power cond
PS3/4
LFR1100v4
VP180HPv4
QS8v4x2
SVS SB13ultra sub
Audioquest, MIT and Kimber cables
Axiom speaker wire
I think my issue is headroom. Got the front end crossed over at 40hz so nothing is working harder than it has to. I guess I'll finally go buy that SPL meter...