Receivers 500 and under?

I know it's been said before, but are there really any legitimate choices other than Outlaw at that price point? Tons of value for the money. The only way I could recommend something else would be if you got a great used price on a receiver that originally cost $1100 or something. In terms of brand new pieces, though, I just don't see a viable alternative to the Outlaw gear.

My vote is for the Outlaw also. I just bought one for my dad and it's very nice for the money!

Soundcity.com has the following special:
-AMC 1100 Stereo Preamplifier -
Phono/Aux, CD, Tuner, Multimedia, DVD, Mix inputs
Tape monitor switch
Balance Control
Ground terminal (Ready for Phono)
Preout 1/ Preout 2
|
-AMC 2100 Stereo Power Amplifier-
2 x 100 Watts rated power into 8 ohm
2 x 150 Watts dynamic power
FR: 20Hz-20KHz
Bridgeable to 250 Watts into 8 ohm

...for $399. If you already have some decent interconnects and a tuner you may be interested.

I have to agree with nearly everyone else on this. Outlaw 1050 is in a class by itself. Check out the reviews on audioreview.com

I haven't heard the Outlaw products, but in my experience the Marantz line clearly outshines the other mass-market Japanese brands including Yamaha and Sony.