Thanks all for the responses.
Pioneer elites give the option of using the two rear surround channels as bi-amped fronts. (7.1 becomes 5.1). This is menu driven and I have set the receiver to do this properly.
Wiring:
I ran 2 lead (1 left, 1 right). Each lead contains 4x 14 awg conductors. I removed the links on the binding post and connected on pair of conductor to the upper posts and the second pair to the lower posts. I have rechecked the wiring and all is fine including the phase.
I read the manual and although the speakers were set to "Large", the crossover point was set at 80hz. I lowered it to the lowest setting, 50hz. Slight improvement, but nothing to write home about.
Any other ideas?
Thanks for your help!!!