I'm in the same boat as you, college living quarters and budget. I'm running a pioneer HT receiver which suffers from symptoms described above with its "cool" nature. You are at least a step ahead of me by using separates which give you more customization in tailoring the sound. I am looking into the possibility of wall treatments to help with my limited ability in speaker placement, try to curb the affects of close quarters and (in my case) concrete walls.
Tubes would definitely be cool, I know I want some. Check out my system if you want to see another example of a college set up.
