Aerial LR 5 or Thiel MCS 1 for ultimate HT SYS?

I've owned both the Aerial (LR3/CC3b) and Thiels (MCS1, used as a center channel w/CS7.2). The MCS1 is not as dark sounding as the Aerials, has better resolution, and yet sounds natural with voices and intruments. Musically, I think the MCS1 is the better speaker. For HT the Aerials have the upper hand when it comes to shear output, dynamics, and punch. The MCS1 can soften a little on the loudest dynamic passages. Both Aerial and Thiel sound great with Classe amps, although you will need more power to drive the Aerials to their potential, especially if you're considering the LR5/CC5. The MCS1 is quite sensitive @ ~90 db, where as the Aerials are around 86db. Both have great build quality. I'd choose the CAV-500 for the Aerials, or the Thiels, but you could probably get away with a CAV-180 with the MCS1s. The Theta Dreadnaught would also be a good choice.

Glen, to keep it short, i'm driving my CS7.2s with a Classe Omega Omicron amp, 350/700/1400 wpc. I have an Aerial CC3b for my center, and Paradigm Ref ADPs for surrounds. These are driven by a Parasound HCA-2205 5x220 wpc amp. The rest of my system consists of a M&K 350THX sub, Meridian 561, Sony DVP7700, and Sony W400Q projector. For two channel I have a Meridian 508.24 and Sonic Frontiers Line 3 frontend with all balanced ics.

I did own the MCS1 and LR3s, sold both, and have re-integrated my two channel and HT systems. To switch between HT and Music, I just switch to balanced input on the Omicron, take down the screen, and move the center channel out of the way.

If you like the way your CA301 drives/drove your CS3.6s, then you'll be fine with either the CS6 or CS7.2. That isn't to say you won't hear a difference with more current and power. In the Thiel line the CS7.2s are the most complete sounding speaker. The driver integration is very good, it has the best transition from bass to mids, midrange is excellent, and it is not as bright as other Thiels.

Three MCS1s up front is a nice setup. Going with either the CS6 or CS7.2 would certainly enhance music playback, for both cds and movies, and may add more oomph. I think you would loose some of the seamlessness left<->right that 3 MCS1s provide.