Hey Bob,
The S8 is a hell of a speaker. It has won many tests here in europe. I don't think it has any competition for the money. For example the cabinet is 2 cm thick. The Bolt through drive system make it even all better. They use stunning crossovers as well.
In the last few weeks I sold one pair in stereo with the Onkyo TX-NR 929 with Audyssey XT-32. I used for amps of the 929. Onkyo will deliver the full capacity of the transformer is using only those 4 amps. The control is stunning. Mann, I created a stunning 3 d sound. The low freq were stunning in drive and in speed.
I also sold a system with S8, S centre, SFX and AW12 sub. Also with a 929. The person who bought went nuts. He said: the music is playing 3-4 metres behind the wall. That is not possible, but I hear it. So I said: I don't ask you to understand it. Just enojoy the music and quality.
I have my own way of measurment. This I won't share. What I can tell is that I measure at different places and Heights compared to Audyssey does. This way creates a much more musical, dynamic sound with more resolution ans a sharper focus. With Audyssey Pro I can let a 5010 sound like a Class A amp. It is like a transformation in sound.
You need to understand that a source can F..up the whole 3D sound easilly. When a source has not the property for depth, it is F...gone. When a client buys a 2D source, I will correct him. I bring in a 3 D source. That is a hard way, but I want things to be clear. Because in my world there is no room for error.
For cables the same story. You need to understand and be aware of the properties your cables owns. These will have a big influence on the sound and image.
Your welcome,
Bobby