Didn't Harman Int. conclude that in their blind listening tests that listeners prefer a flat FR and that it was the most important factor in choosing what they thought was the better speaker? IMHO it would be nice to audition all speakers in blind conditions, but we know dealers would never set...
Don't be fooled, you can do a lot with about $1000. For example: 4 Paradigm Atoms or Titans 1 Paradigm CC170 1 SVS 25-31PCi In a modest size room this would be a very good setup. BTW, I have heard both Atlantic Tech systems. They are both excellent for HT and pretty good for music.
Yes it is very odd, I wanted my L/R shielded just in case I got a larger TV and had to place them close to the TV, but I was out of luck since the wife wanted light cherry. Here is a link to show the finish choices:
http://www.paradigm.com/Website/Site...nitorSpecs.pdf
See page 5
If you are running Atoms in the front, I would go with the CC-170. They both have the exact same drivers, with the CC have one extra 5 1/4in driver. If you have anything from the Monitor line, I would go with the 370.