Honestly, at your price point, I'd think that an integrated would definitely be the best value for the money. I've also (recently) heard Harmon Kardon (AVR-146) and reviewed (two) Yamaha receivers.
http://hometheaterhifi.com/reviews/receiver-processor/yamaha-aventage-rx-a3050-receiver-review/
http://hometheaterhifi.com/reviews/receiver-processor/receivers/yamaha-rx-a1040-audio-video-receiver...
If your choice is between those brands only, I'd give the (very slight) sound quality edge to the HK, although I think that the Yamahas are probably better built.
There may be some other integrated choices that you might consider, though, particularly if you're willing to buy used. Both Arcam and Hegel make integrated amplifiers, either of which would sound, IMHO, significantly better than the HK or the Yamaha. I've owned the Hegel H80 before, and it's no slouch (particularly if you leave it on all the time and keep it warm). I've only heard the Arcam in stores, but it sounded good too.
The "brand new" prices on these Arcam & Hegel items are beyond your stated budget, but on eBay,..
Happy shopping!
http://hometheaterhifi.com/reviews/receiver-processor/yamaha-aventage-rx-a3050-receiver-review/
http://hometheaterhifi.com/reviews/receiver-processor/receivers/yamaha-rx-a1040-audio-video-receiver...
If your choice is between those brands only, I'd give the (very slight) sound quality edge to the HK, although I think that the Yamahas are probably better built.
There may be some other integrated choices that you might consider, though, particularly if you're willing to buy used. Both Arcam and Hegel make integrated amplifiers, either of which would sound, IMHO, significantly better than the HK or the Yamaha. I've owned the Hegel H80 before, and it's no slouch (particularly if you leave it on all the time and keep it warm). I've only heard the Arcam in stores, but it sounded good too.
The "brand new" prices on these Arcam & Hegel items are beyond your stated budget, but on eBay,..
Happy shopping!