Pat, you need to get out more Most of the receivers you mentioned I'd consider entry level and Technics has been eliminated and put under the Panasonic name. Sherwood used to definitely be bargain basement but I have seen now they have mated with someone, maybe Newcastle, so they could be better. Phillips was able to turn Marantz around for the better after they made a bad turn. Is there any new Sansui? I haven't seen any around in years. Check out Onkyo or Harmon Kardon for receivers and some integrated amps for 2 channel. Maybe Arcam or Creek.