First welcome to the Shack... :wave: Well I would really look around and audition as many recievers as possible. It will run you a few more bucks going the seperates way but I think it is worth it. I have a pioneer elite and I use it for a preamp and then use pro audio amps such as crown and behringer. But when I just had the Pioneer alone I was pretty happy with the performance. I wanted more headroom so I went to seperates. Don't know what you want to spend but the shack store has some nice deals like this....http://www.hometheatershack.com/electronics-retailer/receivers-281053-B001BNLTYQ-Pioneer_VSX_1018AH_71_Channel_AV_Receiver.html Is it obvious that I like Pioneer.....:yes: Good luck and take your time and get what is best for you...:wave: