I can't imagine anyone knocking digital amps...mind you, tube lovers have been knocking SS for decades now so I guess it's not unthinkable.

I listened to the little panny the other day. To tell you the truth I though it sounded fine. But maybe, just maybe, it's positive response is more of a result of people casting aside previous beliefs, and facing the conclusion that the differences in sound quality of amps/receivers that are only a few hundred dollars apart price wise isn't astronomical after all.

Bcass, I'd probably stick with the Pioneer or a Yammie or Denon or something with a better warranty and all the features you need. Personally, I love the HTR-5760 or RX-V650 for $350. Add a used Adcom GFA-535 or a NAD, Rotel, Parasound, etc, amp to the pre outs and you will have a very nice sounding budget system for under $500. My old neighbour did just this and I was quite impressed, I've regretted spending as much on my receiver ever since.
Also, if you want a bargain on a sub, try the Dayton DVC line of woofers. These are made by the same people that make the Shiva and Tempest drivers. The units are very similar in all aspects, and the DVC's capture over 90% of the performance of the Adire drivers...in most homes you wouldn't use the extra ability. How loud do you really listen to movies or music? How big is your room? For even better sound quality at the expense of high 3 or 4 dB's of SPL, the Dayton Quatro is all the rage in the best-bang-for-the-buck categorie of 15" woofers these days. It's very efficient and can be mated to the PE 240 watt soft-clipping plate amp for under $200 total!!! That'll save you some cash for the receiver.

My stands cost me about $10-$12 each. With a nice cherry veneer. Using laminate, paint, or a cheaper birch or oak veneer would be a bit cheaper.

There's a few audioreview.com members that have built Quatro subs, and compare them to favorably to some highly regarded DIY alternatives.

To me, the receiver/amp is just too important to go too cheap, you could end up regretting it later.