Receivers

Typically the Denon's have more robust amplifiers, so should sound better, as THX is important to you, I assume sound quality is also. Even better than the Denon would be Marantz, HK, Arcam, Cambridge AZUR, NAD, Google "Audio Advisor" for good price references for shopping higher end brands. Best Regards

Also take a look at Integra which is the upscale Onkyo brand - one other thought - I would look for a product that has the Audyssey MultiEQ function - IME it will do more for bringing your room together then matching the THX standard

Audyssey is a third party that basically uses the DSP as an EQ - they license various versions to OEMs (manufacturers)

Here is the page from their site listing all consumer HT receivers - maybe you can have it all!

http://www.audyssey.com/products/index.html

I just installed an Integra AVR in my HT room. IMHO, Audyssey alone justifies the $1K price tag.

Marty