You are auditioning his system? Baaad idea. You're going to need a LOT more $$$ after you see his real rosewood system.

I run dual M2 centers (one above, one below the display). It works very well and they integrate well with the M80.

You are correct, though, that center channels are purpose built. In this case the issue they address is form factor. Most people cannot accommodate a vertical center (let alone two) in their HT setup.