the QS series surrounds will allow you much more diversity in their placement. they do a great job of radiating the sound in all directions, but still maintain precision and clarity and stay relative to the rest of the speakers. the direct firing speakers would not be a good choice for your set-up applications.
of the 2 options listed, i would go with option 1. it is best to keep the speakers with equal distances, and if you go with QS4's/QS8's, the sound will still be very good for the left listening side. this is just my opinion.
but, i would really stress for you to go with the QS series no matter what placement you decide to go with!
bigjohn
