Well, I finally started the basement construction that will be ~ 1400 sq. ft. for the Media Room, Bar, Pool Room, Bathroom, and Bistro/Sitting area.

I just finished most of the electrical rough in and will be starting the Bar
next week. One area that I haven't decided is where to place the AV
equipment that will go to the 42" plasma above the fireplace. I'm not
sure exactly if I'll go with a seperate AV receiver vice Home-Theater-In-
Box. I have about 13" depth from the wall to the front of the fireplace
and will probably go with building 18" wide x 13" deep oak cabinets on
both sides of the fireplace to place the L/R front speakers. The problem
is that most HTIBs and receivers are over 13" in depth. I would really
like to have it in a different location...I'm thinking on building a recessed
area in a wall about 12' behind the couch.
Where has everyone placed their AV equipment?

http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd201/javatime8/IMG_5003.jpg

Here's a couple more pix...

I am adding inside shutters (just temporary sitting in place) and uplighting for the smaller basement windows...
makes the windows appear longer than what they really are and adds a nice
touch in the evening.
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd201/javatime8/IMG_5004.jpg


Pool Room
Soffits all done both sides. Sconce wall lighting along back wall. Hopefully I have the
pool table light centered. I spent several hours researching pool table and cue sizes.
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd201/javatime8/IMG_4996.jpg

I would definitely suggest a AVR over any HTIB. Any added expense is worth it. Many people are putting the components close by in set ups like yours and a few like myself are going for a very clean look where the components are located in another room or even another level / floor in the house.
Good luck
Calvin

Thanks Calv1n,
Yep...I agree it will result in a cleaner look. I may even go with using flush mounted Center, L/R speakers in the wall and leaning towards moving the AV setup in an enclosed area.