Center Speakers(do they have to match fronts?)

[StimpsonJCat]

Good, Better, Best.

Good: Timbre matching speakers (same Tweeter helps this)
Better: Same speakers (LCR - with a horizontal center)
Best: Same speakers vertical (like Crazy has)

I've always had timbre matched speakers and have been happy with the front soundstage. I recently went with the E70's (LCR) accross the front and was shocked at how big a difference it made. A seamless front soundstage is a beautiful thing.

If I had a choice between running a phantom center and a non-timbre matced center I would go with the phantom. If there is any way you can have the same speaker for all three I highly recommend it.