Yeah - the older models deinitely only have PLII - I think PLIIx only came out commercially in October or November of 2003.

Some of the retailers online definitely only have the PLII models, whcih is probably one reason why the model is going for sale on line.

I also advise a quick call to your online e-tailer to make sure that the box says "PLIIx" on the outside. Ask them to read the box before telling them what it means or asking them if it has it.

If the Denon has the same up-conversion feature (I saw that it does have component video switching), then, you are probably right that it is a wash - But I think I'd be willing to pay a little extra so that my rear channel investment gets a work out too.

I have an RX-V1400 and it's very good. However if you ever plan on multichannel SACD or DVD-A, most receivers (inc'l the 1400) cannot do bass management or time arrival (aka delay) on multichannel analog inputs. The Denon 3803 can. The RX-V1400 has the YPAO parametric EQ which the 3803 lacks. However I think the 3805 has both features, but is more expensive.

Adrien, none of the receivers mentioned have all the features which are desirable, but the 1400 in my view has the best combination in that price range. As you say, DPLIIx should be a must for playing 2 and 5 channel material on a 7.1 setup. Upconversion to component is a nice convenience which both the Denon and Yamaha models mentioned have. Automatic equalization is a big plus for the 1400. Internal bass management for SACDs or DVD-As is available on the HK630 and 525, but neither the Denons nor the Yamahas have it. Your choice.