Yes, the 950 is for home theater, (in the sense of what a receiver does for DVD) but if you've never owned separates
(..cuse this answer if you have)
the 950 requires separate amplification to run it. The 950’s are raved about for excellent HT surround sound presentation. The only problem is, - you mentioned a 500 splurge for the 1050. So right now with your very nice display upgrade (the RCA) it would prob. bust your budget to look at the 950 where you also have to come up with the separate amplifiers. You would have to buy a 5 channel amp (if your subwoofer is powered) or the 770, 7 channels of power. Or mix and match monoblocks and 2-channel amps etc you have around or can acquire, - to power it.
Then you have very amazing Home Theater Surround Sound and can upgrade as it suits you to running 7 speakers and 1 Sub.


[This message has been edited by Smart Little Lena (edited June 11, 2002).]