I've had the Ref 3.1 for a little over a year now and they absolutely rock. Until a few weeks ago I had the matching Ref AV Center, but I sold it because it made the soundtrack/dialoge sound like it was coming from right under the TV, focalized at the center speaker. Phantom mode sounded so much more realistic, coming from behind the TV, with added layers of depth and separation. Don't waste your money on a center channel at this price point. The Ref 3.1s work extremely well in phantom, perhaps better than most other speakers due to their very good disapearing act. I use A'Diva Tis for the surrounds (sides and backs), with very good success, though I also sold the rear backs because they didn't add much volume or effect. The money I saved by selling the center and backs I put into buying a Cary Cinema DVD 7, which has the best picture and sound i've experienced yet (bear in mind i'm no audiophile or videophile, and most people on the these sites have been doing this hobby for longer).
What amps and front ends are you planning on using. The gallos love power (though they don't require it). I change a few months ago from a Rotel 100W/ch receiver to Bel Canto ref 1000 monos and the Gallos really came alive.
What amps and front ends are you planning on using. The gallos love power (though they don't require it). I change a few months ago from a Rotel 100W/ch receiver to Bel Canto ref 1000 monos and the Gallos really came alive.