How can I improve my HT audio?

Use the same speakers all the way around. Avoid sideways center channel if possible. These are designed more for looks and marketing than for sound quality and the correct dispersion pattern (There are a few exceptions on the market). Also, avoid dipole/bipole surrounds, these were designed for diffused sound field recordings and not the pinpoint imaging capabilities of Dolby Digital and dts formats. Think of your system as a 5/6/7 channel stereo. Proper speaker placement and set-up of your pre-processor is the next step. Adding a sub should be on your list, especially if the fronts are not full range. Make sure the sub is placed up front. You may need to move it around to find the best location for your room and blending with the front channels.

yes, a sub will make or break any 5.1, 6.1 system

Thanks! Appreciate all the input! Any suggestions for a sub? should that match the other speakers as well? or is it less important with a sub. Would buy used up to 800.

Peter

You can try DefTech 2006 TL for your L/R, list $1200 new. They are great for HT application and have integrated powered sub, BTW. I auditioned them with McIntosh amplification against Paradigm Ref. 100v2,which I ended up buying (primarily for music), I was quite impressed with DT's for HT.

The sub does not need to be the same make as the rest of your system. The crossover may not be an issue either because your pre-processor has an electronic one built-in. Run the sub crossover off or wide open then set the volume level with test tones and a meter. There are a number of good subs out there. REL seems to be a favorite for musicality. M&K and Velodyne is another good place to start. Try a search on best subs in the archives.