I own the 6003, but before that I had a Denon 3802. I think the Denon had bit more power, but I can't hear a difference in sound quality...that is, with all sound processing turned off. I'm very happy with the Marantz except for the irritating weak response of the unit from the remote. I don't have cable tv, so I haven't run into any popping issues. But, I've mostly owned Denon over the years and have never had ONE problem with them. I don't have buyer's remorse for buying the Marantz since I got a good deal on it, but if I had to do it all over again, I think I'd go back to Denon. Ithink you get more features for your money with Denon...that's all.
