I'm new to this whole Audio/Video deal. Just bought B&W 604 S3, B&W center, B&W Sub and Mirage rears. The dealer sold Yamaha, Marantz, Pioneer Elite and a couple other brands I do not rememeber. He told me for my price range (under $1000.00) you can't beat a Yamaha Receiver. He said when you jump to the $1500.00 and > range there are better receivers out there than Yamaha. I don't really know the real deal; I guess you just have to listen and decide what YOU like. I see a lot of people bash the B&W Line of speakers. I think they sound pretty damn good....Paul