Well, I put my order in for M22ti's, VP100, and QS4's. Will add a SVS PB12-ISD. I'll be using the system for a mix of movies and music (room size is roughly 25 by 17 with 10 foot ceilings). I'll also have 2 sets of speakers set up in 2 other rooms, with separate volume controls (I'd like to be able to have these speakers draw from different sources while the home theater room is in use). For now I'll be feeding all video sources through the receiver so upconversion is necessary (right, am I understanding this part?). I've been told that Onkyo, Denon, HK and NAD are considered good matches to Axiom. I'm fine staying with those brands.

Bonus would be a unit that is on the shallower side, and runs on the cooler side...I'm hoping to place it inside a cabinet that is just under 18 inches deep.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Take a look at the Denon 1905 or 2105. Either will give you everything you need.