Hi, sorry for the late response, haven't been on-forum for a while.

Here's some info, point by point:

MISC: I'm a little concerned about those two red pipes in what appears to be the middle of room ... uh, that could really take away from the "theatrical" experience ;) Have you an overhead (plan) view of the room, along with were you intend to place the display, speakers, and main seating area(s)?

DISPLAY: if you have access to Sony discount pricing and are looking at an approx 40" screen, consider their Bravia line; we don't carry Sony nor have I ever really compared their displays against others, but they have a relatively good reputation with LCDs, especially the Bravia. I would *not* recommend a Sony plasma, however - not unless the discount is quite steep (not that they're bad, just that you can get more for your money with a Pioneer or NEC).

How far from your display are you going to be seated? If it's > 8' (which seems likely, from the dimensions you gave me), you may find a 40" LCD panel to be somewhat small, particularly if you intend to use this as a media room; in this case, you might consider a 50" plasma (the NEC 50XR5a is a great and relatively inexpensive panel); naturally, plasma has its own pros/cons, which we can get into later.

SPEAKERS: if you can accomodate it, I'd suggest standalone (tower or bookshelf) speakers; if not, then on-wall speakers are the next best option (suggestions include: Triad, RBH, PSB, Mirage, Kef). Were you looking for a full 5.1 system, or just a simple front-only setup? In the latter case, consider three speakers (L/C/R); in the former, have you considered how to run the speaker wiring for the surrounds? It sounds like you'll have a drop ceiling, in which case the tiles should be removable for running cabling later, is that right? If not, definitely run the cable now (14/2 at least, 12/2 is preferred).

Also, remember to account for running cabling in & up the wall for the TV (and speakers, if on-wall), as well as the fact that you'll need a power outlet behind the wall-mounted TV (decide upon your wall-mount first, then figure out where the power outlet can fit).

SO GLad I kept checking
YoU came through what a guy

I'll print this, research oh, and post some more pics
2 red pipes are lally colums - no choice on moving

not great pics but...

this is the wall TV will be on -

Near tv wall looking to other side

Ceiling hgt is only 7' before finish - black steam pipes hanging down will stay in same location so, will be below ceiling.
Ceiling is a grid system direct mount to joists -pvc channel system T's & L's 2x2 tiles slide in only lose 1" from joists - Not the greatest but beats losing 4-6" hgt

The carpenters have finished most framing I'll take more shots & post early next week.

Thanks a lot for posting - I've been watching
Eileen