What I am fighting is spending $400+ on an AVR when the 1601 performs admirably.

HDMI switching and HD audio are nice features, but are they heads and tails needed? Will I even notice the audio difference?

Will the upconverting work on 720p Netflix streaming? Or the 1080i Comcast HD cable?

Sorry, internal wallet struggles

I did go back and read the reviews left by users and they seem to condemn CNET for the poor Denon audio review. That's why I asked the first post.

I think at this point it's weighing the options of HDMI inputs vs. Pioneer's neutral iPod connection vs. 10 years of Denon flawless service.