Great review rkeman. I agree completely with all the commentary.
Like Bill, I tried surround systems, and have abandoned them for a return to good old stereo. I am convinced that quality stereo and subs is THE way to go.
I might be the only forum member who prefers the 1Pi to the 2Pi speakers. Yes, they sacrifice some bass, but I think that the upper mid-range is a bit smoother and better defined, but they are both very good speakers. You can't go wrong with either. The Pi dynamics are so much more lifelike than lower efficiency audiophile speakers. (Currently using 1.6 cubic foot kinda/sorta' 1 Pi towers which sounds just killer especially with small tube amps.) I won't ask Wayne to choose between his children.
Justphil you will have a great and wonderfully dynamic system with the 2Pi fronts and 1Pi surrounds. Please consider Wayne's advice for multi-subs.
I hope to start my 3Pi's in a couple of months too.