[Z-man]

If you are getting a 5.1 system, then either get all the speakers for it or use the 'B' switch (typically for 'stereo' speakers - no surround) for your stereo speakers. You don't want to overload the circuits in the receiver without the speakers connected,

Lots of recievers are HDMI 'pass-through' and not true HDMI capable. Not the end of the world -- it allow you to connect all of your components to the receiver and use the receiver to switch between cable box, BD, and AUX video. However, if the receiver only has "HDMI pass-through," you will need to have a separate connection for audio, as stated above. Fiber optics is the best way to connect the componets for audio, IMHO. Keep in mind that you may need to syncronize your audio and video -- all good receivers have that functionality (look for "changing the microsecond delay" in the manual.)

These days, 7.1 is the latest and greated in terms of surround sound. But not too many BD's and music take advantage of the extra two channels vs. 5.1. I have a 7.1 system, and when watching TV appreciate the fact that I can hear the audio clearly without having to crank up the volume, due to the extra speakers.

You can always start with a Home Theature in a box, and replace the speakers with better ones as you grow your system, and then move the original speakers into other rooms. (I am in the process of wiring my whole house for sound, including speakers for the deck. Yes - it is easy to get carried away!)

-Z-man.