Hi John, Onkyo is a good company but I would never buy any audio componants without listening to them, especially a "Home Theater" System. I would consider myself an audiophile and have to say "True" home theater need to be well thought out and that even a great system is only as good as the room it is matached with. Also if this is to be the same system you listen to music on (stereo) you should consider a speaker config that favors your front speakers. Some systems allow you to "tune" the acoustics in your room. This can make a big difference.
Small audio shops will let you bring in your own music and have a listen on the system you are considering. That is a good place to start!