I would second Peter (pmbuko) on his explenation on the difference between the receiver and separates. I was skeptical myself first, when I had Rotel RX-1052 stereo receiver rated 100 wpc with JBL E60 towers, until I switched to Rotel RB-1070/RC-1070 combo (now I have RB-1080). I noticed a sizable difference right away. Separates is the way to go, at least for stereo, not sure for HT. You won't know the difference until you actually try it (of course, you have to compare apples to apples, for example Rotel receiver to Rotel separates).

Axiom M60s, QS4s, VP100 Onkyo TX-SR804 Oppo 970HD Rotel RB-1080/RCD-1072 REL Q150E sub, PS 3