I have recently bought the rest of my speakers for a home theatre set up. I have a pair of M22s, the VP100, a pair of QS4s and an EP175. I also have a Samsung 42" DLP. Not bad for a NYC apartment. My receiver is a Pioneer VSX-43TX.

Now for the problem. My reciever has a problem where it sometimes takes an hour or two before it starts passing audio. I can bring it in for repair but figure it would cost at least $200. I can always leave it on 24/7! But, the receiver cannot pass HD video and more modern receivers have more features such as the ability to correct for picture/audio sync problems. I noticed the Sherwood R771 on the axiom website.

Would the Sherwood R771 be sonically superior to the Pioneer? I want it to sound good for music ( mostly jazz and classical ) and for movies ( explosions ).

Is it worth the $600 or am I just looking for a new toy?

Any opinions?