When it comes to pure numbers, my current audio setup cost roughly 15x my video setup, but I've had three TVs/projectors while maintaining basically the same 5.1 audio setup for the past 6 years. That fact alone speaks volumes of the value you will get from buying quality speakers/amps. Sure, you might have a very large initial outlay when you buy some high end speakers, but as mentioned, they are comprised of materials and technology that are time-tested and durable. I expect to have these speakers for at least another 5 years unless have a windfall or a premature midlife crisis.

Only recently have I decided to put some more money into the audio to update my processor with HDMI, but that really only amounts to a convenience/aesthetic feature for me, adding video switching and decreasing cable clutter; there was no major upgrade in terms of quality, even though I simultaneously updated the projector to a 1080p model.

For me, it only took one really amazing demo in a dealer showroom to convince me of the importance (for me) of audio done VERY well. After I demonstrate my home theater to someone, their first question is usually, "How much was this?" After their jaw drops, I explain that I bought it all when I was first out of college with a new job, low rent, and all my hipster girlfriends wanted for a romantic evening was a burrito, a Miller High Life, and drunk sex. Now I've got a mortgage, plans for "the future," and a girlfriend who shaves her pits. "Buy it when you're young," as they used to tell me. F'ing right.

It's awesome and I feel lucky to be able to enjoy it very often:

Panasonic PT-AE4000U Projector
B&W Nautilus 802 (L/R), Nautilus HTM1 (C), Nautilus 805 (SL/SR)
Rotel RSP-1570 Processor
Bryston 6B-SST (L/C/R), Bryston 3B-ST (SL/SR)
Denon 3910 Universal Disc Transport
PS3
Pro-Ject RPM 6 SB, with Tube Box Preamp
No name or Blue Jeans cables (here's where you save money, kids)
A decent rug in front of the speakers ("room treatment")

I started reading Joystiq after it swallowed PS3Fanboy.

Sooo...what's the verdict?

And boom goes the headset

I think we should hire more US Americans to build globes and draw maps for kids that don't read so good.

This would help me manage my Panopticon.

Any word on pricing and availability for the HT-BD8200 blu-ray soundbar (http://www.engadgethd.com/tag/HT-BD8200/) ? That model is a must buy for my bedroom system. With the inclusion of a wireless sub, Netflix streaming, and iPhone docking, it has been on my watch list since CES.

Most people who really care about home theater will not be using this as their main speaker system, but I think it is a great high-end upgrade to the built-in speakers of any HDTV.

Look at the ground...why won't you face me, you cowards?!?

I will christen my new projector with this booty!

I recently saw Quantum of Solace at the Prytania. While I wasn't aware of their new equipment prior to entering, we were were repeatedly impressed by the high-level of detail, which we just attributed to an outstanding film transfer.

On a side note, the Prytania "looks the other way" with regard to bringing your own adult beverages into the theater. If you are of age, it is a great way to spend a weekday evening getting blasted.