mdrconsult, I sure wish I had an audio only room! :-) It would be totally different from my 'media room'.

renov8r,
I really liked your post. I believe in a home viewing environment, you're not going to look any more dorky than when people sat in the theater to see Avatar, so I'm okay with that part. Now whether it can actually deliver at home (besides novelty for the grand kids), I don't know yet. 3D isn't and don't think will ever be a selling point for me when looking at any type of display. 4K's not either yet, but a possible chance it might be in the future.

I've actually only heard Atmos in a single demo room with a 5.1.2 setup, but was really impressed with the placing of sounds. They seemed to sometimes float(?) between the main and back surround speakers. I run 7.1 with multiple subs, so I'll be running a 7.2.4. As far as the placing of the ceiling speakers I am still battling myself since I have two rows of seating. I think your statement about correct placement is key. With a fairly long (22ft) room, I believe they can make a big difference. I don't think I would ever (famous last words) go for more than 7.2.4 but, I like your statement 'all the good stuff about multi-channel GETS BETTER and the only "negative" is how many drivers / amps you need to run, which to most of us that like AV hardware is not a negative, but an opportunity' ;-)