DO talk with Dave about best balance of value. I have now purchased and listened to the HVL-1. They are CHEAP! If I were you, with a budget that is between Sierra 1 and 2 in front, I'd seriously consider HVL-1 for the surrounds and maximize $ up front. To me, the HVL-1 sounds like a Sierra 2 (I have no Sierra 1), but less detailed, less extended on the top, less extended on the bottom, and, if you crank them up, a bit boomy. However, adding a sub significantly improved their clarity and reduced the bass bloom. As an HT surround, with a sub, in the rear, they might be adequate. I initially had an HVL-1 on the left and an S2 on the right, in the front, and it did not sound out of place. To me, the sonic signature is very similar. They might be the first, truly low priced speaker that I can actually listen to without cringing. Why did I get them? I got them on a lark, at the current sale price from Ascend, as spares potentially for a guest room or garage, or a gift. They are front ported! I don't know if they are discontinued. Maybe I should get a spare, spare pair... (too many speakers!)