several users seem to like this system according to the reviews at circuitcity.com. i am tempted to go for it, but the speakers look a bit larger than what i'm looking for. anyone have personal experience with this?

I do have experience with this particular system. I helped my friend pick out and install it. And it really is fantastic. the side speakers (left right and rear left right) are what I would consider normal. The front left and right are quite large. but the sound that comes from them is extraordinary. Balanced and very powerful.