In response to Keriadums post, I could not disagree more. At first I wasn't sure if this was a serious post! To suggest that a full blown Aerial system (10t, Active sub, top line center and rears) is not up to the task of anything Hollywood has to offer is silly to say the least. Keriadums pretty much shows his lack of any real understanding of speakers systems and amplification by suggesting "if there was some way you could turn those same Aerials into "active" speakers and get some more power and finnese out of them, you might have something for movies. Hummmmmm." As most of you looking at Audiogon posts know, there is no difference between an active speaker and one that is not, other than perhaps the length of speaker cable needed to connect the amp that is not integral to the speaker cabinet. With the possible exception of subwoofers, which like the Aerial are usually powered, most of us would prefer some choice when it comes to selecting amplifiers, and for good reason. Regarding dynamics, the Aerial 10t is known for its dynamics and ability to be driven to very high levels, given enough power. Additionally, to suggest that a speaker designed for music is not up to the task of bombs and explosions, certainly in the case of Aerial, is once again just plain silly. That's like saying you have to listen to the 1811 Overture on a HT system because it has a canon shot in it! And Michael Kelly is designing speakers for HT! Yes, it is true that serious audiophiles often have seperate systems for music and HT (I do, and I use Aerial in both systems to excellent effect). But the reason for this is up to this point well recorded music sounds much better on two channel systems. Certainly this is true given most people's budget when you consider the expense of 5 channels versus 2. Sorry Keriadums, but your comments show a lack of experience.
Regarding the original question of this post...you did not indicate what your budget was, but you did say you wanted your system for both HT and music. Definately go for the 10t's if you can afford them. The model 8 would not be my first choice given they tend to be a bit over powering in the bass in many rooms. Better to go with 6s or 7s. The Aerial sub would be nice if you have the room and can afford it, however, you will do just fine without a sub if you go for something like the model 7. You can always add a Sunfire sub for the extreme low end if you really want to hear everything soundtracks like Jurasic Park have to offer and keep the expense down. Keep in mind though that most movie soundtracks are not that great and what you really want is a system that sounds good for music. Also remember that the center channel is often doing most of the work. In my HT system I use original model 7s with a single model 5 (yes, you can order just one) for the center channel and NHT surrounds. Not state of the art by any means, and I'll probably upgrade the surrounds one day, but it sounds great for movies, even Jurasic Park! I also use this system for music, much more than movies, just because of where it is located in the house, but my 10t's are much better and I believe they have always been, and continue to be, one of the best values in high end loudspeakers. There are many excellent choices when it comes to speakers these days and Aerial is definitely one of the best. Also, these are some of the better made speakers on the market. Really nice cabinet work and finishing. Even the packing is in a class by itself. Michael Kelly is a real gentelman and very available to speak to if you call, which I would highly suggest. Good luck with your system.
Regarding the original question of this post...you did not indicate what your budget was, but you did say you wanted your system for both HT and music. Definately go for the 10t's if you can afford them. The model 8 would not be my first choice given they tend to be a bit over powering in the bass in many rooms. Better to go with 6s or 7s. The Aerial sub would be nice if you have the room and can afford it, however, you will do just fine without a sub if you go for something like the model 7. You can always add a Sunfire sub for the extreme low end if you really want to hear everything soundtracks like Jurasic Park have to offer and keep the expense down. Keep in mind though that most movie soundtracks are not that great and what you really want is a system that sounds good for music. Also remember that the center channel is often doing most of the work. In my HT system I use original model 7s with a single model 5 (yes, you can order just one) for the center channel and NHT surrounds. Not state of the art by any means, and I'll probably upgrade the surrounds one day, but it sounds great for movies, even Jurasic Park! I also use this system for music, much more than movies, just because of where it is located in the house, but my 10t's are much better and I believe they have always been, and continue to be, one of the best values in high end loudspeakers. There are many excellent choices when it comes to speakers these days and Aerial is definitely one of the best. Also, these are some of the better made speakers on the market. Really nice cabinet work and finishing. Even the packing is in a class by itself. Michael Kelly is a real gentelman and very available to speak to if you call, which I would highly suggest. Good luck with your system.