Chevy, you will likely get similarly good results from any modern receiver that has the features you want. Make sure it has pre-outs in case you need more power for multichannel HT, IMO.
Maybe upgrade to the VP150 and/or EP500 if you can save on wires/receiver/etc... It seems foolhardy to spend extra bucks on wires, surge protectors and microscopic receiver upgrades when you could simply buy "better" speakers and get clearly audible results.
Seems like TV prices keep plunging. Good time to continue waiting???