My setup uses Polk speakers (fronts, which I have bi-amped, central, subwoof, rears) and a Yamaha RX-V1000. The RX-V1000 came with a microphone that you plug in, and then you run a calibration routine, and the unit sets the equalization constants. Sounds great.
I think if you have a ballsy enough amp, and you work hard to get the EQ set right, the 901s (any version) will sound fine. If your amp is a good one, but not so powerful (e.g. 20 or 30 W per channel), you might be better suited to using another speaker. Other folks here, more expert than I, have suggested some names.