I would always plug in the ethernet cable if practical! Just unplug the antennae.
However, you still may want to go with the audio stand if you are short-changing your AVR for ventilation!!!
One trick I've learned to make life easier is to print out an image of the back panel (A4L has nice big ones if you Zoom it all of the way). I keep mine on the shelf under the AVR.
As a plus, it gives me a ready excuse if my GF catches me copping a feel of the hinter regions of my new electronics!