focus on good 2 channel, and set up an acceptable HT, with video plus audio it isnt as critical as some make it out to be....this is supposed to be fun...I know the flood gates will open back up with the ultra ego know it all geeks, so I am gonna drop out and let the others be fools, all I can say is I have a 2 channel set-up that I get enjoyment from, added to that I have an HDTV and surround speakers and it is fun, music is great and a good movie is really thrilling with all the speakers in the room.
If it was me you asked, (wich you did not personally) I would tell you that 2 channel movies suck, and the more people you have in the room, the more it sucks, stereo movies are 1980's technology and to not enjoy the advancements in Home entertainment technology is a shame, you can be VERY happy with a mid-fi HT and not go broke or crazy trying to get it just perfect, if you are anal and have no life, follow others and there antiquated ideas of 2 channel movies. Or be a normal human being, get a few more speakers, set them up on the wall and add a center channel under or on top of your monitor, pop in a DVD and live life like 99% of the rest of the HT world.
As long as you have the 2 channel down, follow these simple steps and you will have your cake and eat it too, plus you will have fun and a life! best wishes in your quest for home theater, feel free to mail me private if you wish and let RS and lamb babble on about who has less of a life and who knows more about HT.
Best Regards, Chad