It depends on what's important to you. If you want something that's sleek and compact and has the cd ripping function then there's not much competition out there. Bose also has a certain sound that some people like.
If on the other hand, sound quality, flexibility and expandability are important then take a look at the Onkyo systems.
http://www.us.onkyo.com/prod_class.cfm?class=Systems
You'll need to add a DVD or blu ray player and you won't have the CD ripping capability, but you'll also save $900 or more and have (in my opinion) a better sounding system that will allow you to add to it over time.
Personally, I'm not a fan of the Bose approach which is basically heavy equalization to try to make cheap speakers sound good. It works on some levels, but all that equalization does not sound natural to my ears. Some people love it and every person has their own taste so there's no right or wrong. The Bose stuff also looks really good so if your system needs approval by the decorating committee (usually a spouse or girlfriend) then Bose will most likely be the winner. Bose also has that CD ripper to the internal hard drive, but you can do that yourself with any system by connecting your computer to it or using something like an Apple TV that will wirelessly connect iTunes on your computer to your entertainment center.