best AVR for dual use in HT/music?

I would get whichever unit you like to use the most & also one that has the options you like. Then when the time comes buy a descent 2 channel amp, even a $400 Adcom GFA-5500, SQ will go way up!!

I used a old Denon reveived (1993-2009) that I just replaced with a Integra piece. I wanted another Denon but they do not make them w/o a internal amp so I looked elsewhere & purchased a pre/pro, very pleased.

My brother loves HK
My fiance is a yamaha fan

I would get whatever you like the feel/looks/etc of the most & do like I said, buy a small amp

I've owned various Denon AVR's and they have all performed nicely in stereo and surround sound. My latest piece is an Onkyo TS-XR806. I'm very happy with it as a stereo receiver for my LP's, CD's and tapes but its also a very competent H/T surround unit with all the latest CODECS. It's my first Onkyo and I have no serious issues other than I wish I could completely dim out its display (short of using pure direct mode which does) but in any other mode the display dims but not completely.

If I were looking to buy a new receiver I'd have to give a serious look and listen to the ICE powered (class-D) receivers from Pioneer even though they are not inexpensive.

Great advice and that is probably what I will wind up doing, buying an external amp to power the fronts for 2-channel use. The Onkyo units have assignable surround back amps, so I can bi-amp the front channels.
I like HT receivers because I get the internal DAC and am able to use an Airport Express for all my digital rips. 2-channel amps can be had pretty cheaply, there are several Parasound units here at Agon that would work great. Too bad you have to spend $800 minimum to get multi-channel preouts. Well Yamaha has a unit for $550 that has the preouts, but I think would rather have the Onkyo. Every other day I change my mind, looking at Parasound New Classic 2-channel preamp/amp OR the Onkyo TX-NR807+AE+cables. Leaning toward the Onkyo today!

Found an internet deal on a Denon 3310CI, for $950, so I bit. Almost bought the Onkyo TX-NR807, on sale for $800, but opted for the Denon, I suspect it will be better at 2-channel. Will test in 2.1 channel analog direct mode first, and will post results.

Anyone using Sony ES receivers? How do they compare to Denon,Onkyo and Yamaha? I can get a very good deal on a da2100es and wonder if it's worth it. Thanks