I apologize for all these newbie questions, but unfortunately I have another.

I know matching speakers in the front channels is important, but what about the rear speakers relative to them? In other words, would movement from front to back sound awkward if I had axiom mains and say... paradigm surrounds?

Timbre matching is important on all speakers otherwise the transition of sound would be off. If you already have the paradigms the best way to find out is to hook them up and listen to them. If you dont have the paradigms, you can ask your local dealer to loan you a pair for audition, they might agree.

On the other hand, you know for sure that Axiom surrounds will match your system.

Thanks, that clears it up...