Rich, regarding SMPS vs. LPS, I have a 1000-8 coming that will be used with my actives. That amp is spec'd to give me 375 dynamic Watts on all eight channels simultaneously into 4 Ohm loads from a 120VAC/15A outlet. Show me an amplifier with an SMPS that can do that. Heck, show me an amp that can do that!

House of the Rising Sone
Out in the mid or far field
Dedicated mid-woofers are over-rated