Merc, interested study in Canada that you mention. The "temperature" of sound people seem to prefer definitely does vary by nationality and even race.

I've heard that Asian countries tend to prefer their music on the bright side while Americans largely (IMO) prefer the warmer and fuller sound. And the Brits seem to enjoy a dryer more analytical sound.

As I've spent more time with the 950, the edginess and brightness have receded and I'm starting to agree that the 950 is fairly neutral afterall, though still leaving out ambience, room acoustics, etc that I know is present in the source material. I think an infusion of warmth would be helpful there.

When I get more space I'll probably experiment with the Sony PT900 (or whatever model it is) to handle 2 channel duties. If the sony is as good as some say, this combo should substantially beat the Rotel soundwise for about the same price. The sound of the 950 for DD and DTS already is excellent IMO.