Pleade help / advise novice on Aperion 4T-CB Hybrid SD or EMP Impression 7.1

[achtung360]

Hi guys, this is one of my first posts on here. I'm setting up a dedicated theater room. 18ft long by 13.5 ft wide. I already bought a 72 inch and a set of Berkline 3174 from carolinafurnituregroup. Now I'm onto the audio. I'm not an expert by any means. At first I was leaning towards
(I'm unable to post links because of my post count)

Intimus 4T-CB Hybrid SD


Then found the EMP Impression 7.1


Audioholics is really raving about this system but I can't find any other reviews on it. The speakers appear to be more powerful and they are a 7.1 system vs Aperion 5.1 for around $300 more. Can you guys give me any advice and opinions on this. Do you think I even need 7.1? I believe once I put the seats there will not be too much room behind them, maybe 5ft or so. I'll be listening to some music but mostly watching movies. Do you know of a better setup under $2,000. I've searched the forums a lot but now I'm looking for some direct advice. Thanks

Achtung

 

[AVRat]

Welcome to the site!

5 vs. 7 channels is a matter of preference in a room your size, but a 5.1 setup will surely perform well. I don’t care for either of those packages primarily because of the subs. I’d prefer an EMP 5.0 package with an SVS PB12-NSD. Another option, for around $1950 shipped you could purchase an Ascend Acoustics CMT-340/CMT-340C/HTM-200 combo and an SVS PB12-NSD. You could save a little by going with their CBM-170s up front and still have excellent performance if you don’t mind bookshelfs.