Guys, let's understand what we are paying for here with the Denon; it's not a better picture it's the DACS. The majority of high end pre/pro makers have not come out with models that can decode the new hi-def audio thru HDMI(excluding the ridiculously priced, and sized, Denon preamp. I mean I'll spend $8,000 on a cartridge but $7,000 grand for a surround processor the size of Cuba?! Anyway, the Denon has high quality DACS in it which can send the hi-def audio to a standard pre/pro.
As for me I just but the Samsung BD-U5000 dual format player. It's great for me because I am heavily invested in both blu ray and hd-dvd. Now I don't have to switch players all of the time. The picture is amazing especially on standard def stuff.
I am sure someone is going to retort back that the picture is better on the Denon but I am telling you the price is all about the DACS!