Ok, for recievers, get one that suits your needs. For example, I have an HDTV, and I connect 3 devices using component video to it. While it's extremely hard to find a reciever with 3, i did find ones with 2 inputs and 1 output. Perfectly fine, because I can just disconnect Xbox and hook up my DVD player when I want to watch a movie. Then I also had to get one with the correct number of S-video, and optical inputs and everything. Seriously, take some time selecting a reciever. Make sure you go view it in the store, look at all the inputs, and make sure you can connect everything you need.
As for the features of the reciever, the more features the higher the price. The one I use is a Sony 6.1 channel reciever with DD EX, DTS, and PLII support. Of course, I only use 5 speakers, I needed it for the extra S-video and optical input. Cost me like $500 I think. Your reciever is what decodes the signal and outputs it to the speakers, so make sure you get one that supports everything you want. Pro Logic II, DTS, and Dolby Digtal are the most common formats that you'll see today, but I don't know exactly what you're looking for. Other formats I know of are Dolby Digital EX, DTS-ES, Pro Logic I, THX Surround EX, THX Ultra, and THX Ultra 2. I can't explain the differences in all of them, you'll have to look it up. I think Dolby Digital EX is for 6 channel setups, not positive.
Anyway, the THX ones are hella-expensive. And then you still need THX certified speakers to make Lucas happy.
It all boils down to how much money you want to spend on your system. Mine cost me a little over $2000, and it sounds great. But I know a lot of audiophiles who will spend close to $15,000 for their setup.
Now back to a summary:
Bose cubes are sweet, but I would listen and make sure you like them. If you do want them, get the speakers and then buy a reciever seperatly. You will thank yourself in the end, not to mention it's cheaper than that. I got a 6 channel speaker, Bose's best cube speakers, and the optical cords (pricey if you get monster) for like $2100. I can buy Bose's center speaker (considering it), and have a 6 channel setup for $180 more, and I'm still less than a thousand under that cost. Hell, you could get a 27" Samsung HDTV for that money you save.
If you got more questions, just ask. I got my setup fairly recently, just in time for Black Hawk Down. Best Buy then was offering 24 months no interest
