Pioneer VSX-1020-K

Pros: iPod & Internet Radio simple setup. Remote control logical/easy. GUI helpful not overwhelming. Tons of HDMI ports. Doesn't run too hot. Looks sophisticated not confusing. Upscaled analog components sound/look amazing Flexible speaker setup options.

Cons: Netwook hook-up should have more PC interfacing flexibility beyound Internet radio - and speaking of which, Internet radio stations difficult to customize/edit presets. Instruction manuel cumbersome at times, assumptuous at others.

Summary: This is the best five hundred dollars I've ever spent, and I'm a tech weinie gadget head, so that says something! I absolutely love this receiver, and I'm not even a Pioneer guy - until now! I now call it my second wife! I researched and test-listened for months before buying, and this VSX-1020 offers the most options, quality and flexibility for the dollar hands down. The sound is great, multi-zone functionality rocks! Internet radio seemlss setup and delightful, never choppy playback. Not an iPhone guy so can't comment on that, but I hear it's neat to use the iPhone as a remote. I've got a hodge-podge of analgog components and new digital/HD ones of every conceivable brand and age (I still listen to tapes, LP's and watch VCR tapes in addition to all the new mediums), and a bastardized speaker system featuring classic Bose 501 Towers, new Yamaha 315 subwoof, and a couple Bose acoustimass cube speakers here and there, calibrated the room with included mic, and now my living room sounds like Carnegie Hall! This receiver turns water into wine folks, I'm not kidding...