VH,

You really can not have a good discussion about audio equipment without allowing someone to criticize.
You will learn a lot like that but what ultimately matters is how your system sounds to YOU.

I have heard enough systems in different places to know you need more than good speakers for them to sound great. Although the speakers ultimately do the "talking", your ears, your room acoustics and your equipment will all have a effect. Sometimes you get that sweet combination and sometimes you dont. What works for some might not work for others.

There are some good people in this forum with a lot of experience. Keep an open mind and enjoy the conversation!