Philip,

I was running a pair of Mackie 824s for my home studio when it hit me that they sounded really ballsy and well balanced (as monitors should). I just got a third one for the center channel but I'm using a pair of Alesis powered monitors as surrounds. The Alesis' are far inferior! In fact, once you're using a pair of the Mackie's up front you won't be satisfied with anything inferior. It's too bad 'cause those babies cost $579 at Guitar Center. (That's each!) OTOH, one don't have to mess with separate amps. (By the way, IMHO the new, smaller Mackies don't have the same sound. Caveat emptor! Also, the center channel Mackie isn't needed...save your cash.)

You asked about cables. I had the nice guy at WickedCables.com make me custom length cables. Unfortunately, you won't be able to use the xlr input on the Mackies because the 950 only has RCA outs. My cables are terminated with RCA males and phone plug males. (I've petitioned the Outlaw guys to include balanced xlr outs on the next 950.)
It is a joy to listen to, btw!

Jay