ive got paradigm studios, and there isn't anyhting out there that i'd want to upgrade to. i'm just not interested in spending several thousand dollars on speakers again, when these sound great to my ears. i've got a servo-15, and may want to add another sub at some point because i have a...
your processor/receiver should have a night/midnight/quiet mode that compresses the dynamic range. this is a pretty common feature, and would correct the problem. one of two things is happening here - either your center or sub is not calibrated correctly, or that's just how the movie is...
try sharper image - 2 weeks ago i found 2 display models at a local store. got them for $100 each. if they are being used on the floor, be sure to have them take your info. they called me right away when they were ready to unload.
ignore any specs related to watts. CCs website has a similar onkyo system on sale for $150. i'd probably save the $50 and go with that. don't upgrade your speakers unless you are going to do all 5. your best upgrade from that system would be to a receiver.
the only way to know for sure is to get them home and try them out. be sure to experiment moving the speakers back and forth near the tv as magnetic interference can be subtle. i've found getting solid colors on the screen is the best way to identify a problem. look for rainbowing or the picture...
ideally you would get 5 matching speakers. if that is not possible, your next best bet would be to get new left/center/right speakers, and move the lx55s to surround duty. what's your budget?
free plug: i have one of these myself and for 5.1 it works great. it's driving notoriously power hungry paradigm 100's, and doing it well. if all you need is 5.1, this is a way better unit than anything you'd find new for $300.