Looking for new AV Receiver

For $1k you aren't going to get much of an upgrade over what you have (unless you go used as Erik suggests).  I'd say you're probably better off saving up.  

Your pioneer isn't a bad reciever.  You can take advantage of the PRE out available and add a 2 channel amp to driver your front speakers.  this should give you improved 2 channel sound as well.  However, you're still going to have trouble finding a good amp for $1k. 

Jerry

i've never heard huge differences in quality among the <$1k mass market avrs--i'd check out accessories4less, which has deep discounted prices on yamaha/denon and pick one that has the tech features you need.

For future options, try to get one with Front L and Front R rear output jacks.

Those are preamp, volume controlled by the AVR with all other channels.

Purpose is to have a ’better’ front 2 channel music system that doubles for Video use.

The AVR’s Front L and R Preamp Outs can go to a future preamp/amp or integrated amp with a Home Theater Bypass, so your ’better’ front amp is still used for the front speakers, volume controlled by the AVR

Crutchfield is a quick source for comparative info, and you can see magnified views of the rear panels.

Seems Marantz and Yamaha tend to include front pre-outs, some Onkyo Integra line have it, but standard Onkyo's do not. Seems Denon's do not have front pre-outs

of course do your research and compare prices elsewhere, but easy info at Crutchfield, even info on discontinued models if you are considering used.

I checked their black friday AVR's, none have front pre-outs

My Onkyo RZ630 receiver I use in the man cave is unbeatable for the price. With your budget you could step up to feature rich 840: