[bubba966]

So, I need a bit of explanation reguarding amps.

I am getting a reciever, do I need an amp?

No, you don't need an amp. The VSX-D812K has 6 channels of amplification built in. So it'll power a Left, Center, Right, Right Rear, Rear Center, & Left Rear speaker w/no additional amp needed.

Jay,

I've not played with the MCACC feature much yet. I saw it demo'd on a Pioneer Elite VSX-49TX when that was new (and boy did that make me want to dump my VSX-39TX for the 49TX). I'd still love to get the current top Elite model, but don't have the $3K+ to do it...

[ooheadsoo]

I think DIY speakers are much greater value than commercial.  I think either the br-1 or the dayton budget 2 way will perform any 5.25" woofer speaker you find under $250-300.  Labor is expensive in America and speaker companies need to pay for overhead on top of a big margin.