I decided on Monitor Audio for my music, but

No need to look any further go with the gold ref20s they are beautiful speakers! I own a pair and could not be happier! I have also owned the S8 which was also very nice. This is another option and then spend the remaining $1000 on a nice CDP like the Jolida JD100A which I plan on purchasing in the near future. No need for the sub even in HT applications because the speakers have a very nice low end extension. The only time I would add the sub is if you have a really large room. Also if you decide to use them for HT I would purchase the matching center before the sub. Remember to use good cables, I use biwired Zu Cable "Wax" with mine and am very pleased. Also with any MA speaker allow it to burn in for up to 200 hours to fully appreciate the speaker. MA makes fantastic speakers that when set up properly can out compete many more expensive speakers. I wish there was more coverage of these speakers on Audiogon. Enjoy!