Wow it's unfortunate that one of Onkyo's top end models still has trouble running the M80s. I actually ran into your thread earlier and looked into those brands that you had mentioned.
I did a little browsing around and found a few receivers within my price range: a Marantz SR4001 and an HK AVR247. Both are a little low when it comes to wattage but have pre outs so I can eventually get a power amp.
I'm not really familiar with how power amps work, but would it be possible to buy a stereo power amp to run the M80s and use the receiver to run the rest of the speakers?
For now, I intend on using the M80s in a 2.1 setup (powered sub), do you think either of these receivers will suffice? Are there any other specific models I should look into?
Sorry for the loaded questions, but I really value what the members of this forum have to say.
