Contentt, welcome. I'd suggest that you consider a Denon or Onkyo unit(forget the Mertz; I don't know anybody that has one)with Audyssey MultEQ. The Axioms are average to slightly above average in sensitivity and don't have any unusual power requirements. Any of the receivers with typical ratings in the 100-150 watt area should be plenty for safe listening levels at the usual home distances.
You don't necessarily have to go the whole $1K, especially if you get a factory refurbished unit, which should be at least as reliable as a brand-new one. A particularly good buy at the moment, which I've suggested several times, is the
Onkyo 707 available for about $400 plus shipping. Models such as the 807, 1007 and 3007 are also available for $1000 or less. Similar Denon deals are available from eCost and Dakmart.
