turbo88888: I use B&W XT4 and XTC front-channels and B&W PV1 sub . For rear I have the B&W CCM-80 ceiling mounted speakers. I am however not happy with surround performance (not due to processor but due to room configuration - no space for wall mouted surrounds and ceiling speakers just sound too high).

Familiar with the B&W XT range? Do you think these would do the Marantz equipment justice? I am happy with their performance. In time though, with the additional channels available on the MM8003 I could bi-amp a higher spec'ed speaker.

Mr Peabody: Thanks for the tip on remote; to press the numeric button directly to change source, much easier.

If I may, I would like to ask general advice regarding cabling, specifically related to interconnects between AV8003 and MM8003. I currently have AudioQuest King Cobra RCA interconnects (1m run). Do you think it would be worthwhile upgrading these to balanced interconnects? I'm hearing differing views on the actual impact this will have on sound quality. (Also, if anyone know's the AudioQuest range, would you recommend going for a higher spec-ed cable?)