I am thinking about getting a new receiver as well as speakers. My budget is around 1100 and i was hoping if anyone had some good ideas what i could get. Also, for 7.1 when i buy my surround speakers does it matter if all 4 of the back speakers are the same speaker. Or should it be that the 2 rear ones be more powerful? thanks
There are loads of receivers around your price (assuming those are US$). One I'll mention is the Denon AVR2807 or AVR3806 depending on deals etc. The 3806 is appreciably better than the 2807 but both are good.
At the back, it is preferable if all 4 are the same because it gives a more uniform soundscape.