5.1 small speaker recommendations

I've considered Orb but don't find a good deal of interest here. Are they simialr quality to Gallo or just looks? I don't mind the extra cost for a better product but if they are on par with one another I'd save some cash.

I do own both. The Gallo's enclosure are better built but the Orb's are slightly larger and go slightly deeper, but you'll need a sub for both so could be a moot point. The Orbs have a bigger soundstage and seem more holographic, whereas the Micro's convey slightly more detail and tightness, probably due to the more solid enclosure.

The Orb's do have a good return policy so it might be worthwhile to try them out and you'll only be out the shipping cost if you don't like them.

Zu Audio...they now have a matching 5 channel set up and some pretty snazzy wood stain offerings. They are very efficient and can play loud for theater.

Just home theater? I'd go kilpsch or something with dynamics. There are some reference series klipsch monitors for little money on audiogon.

I did an in ceiling 5.1 installation using Gallo's, a small Velodyne sub, and a very inexpensive Panasonic switching receiver. I found the results very impressive considering the budget. I can only guess by placing those drivers at ear level would be a much greater improvement.

You shouldn't be so quick to dismiss 7.1. The matrixed surround effect is worth the effort down the road.