In recently buying the Onkyo 797 receiver, it would be nice to say i've heard better for cheaper but frankly, i have not.
The receiver cost me a pretty penny but so far has been quite worth it.
The 6.1 channel surround, 7.1 capable with an external amp and the secondary room setup were big draws for me.
Second to that was the Onkyo reputation for quality receivers and sound.
Offhand I can't remember some of the other receivers i did my comparison shopping against (although i can dig it up if anyone is REALLY interested), but my simple opinion is that the Onkyo, paired with the M60s and tested with 2 cd players (a third comparison with a Panasonic dvd cv51 is coming after tonight), sounds absolutely smooth. The Denon cd player kicked the hell outta the old Technics cd player so badly that even my hamster could tell the difference.
There is no better way to describe the sound from the Onkyo but clear and smooth. The power output was plenty for driving the M60s and my other old speakers. That always helps to keep away from those potential upper volume ranges hitting distortion.
Absolutely distinct vocals, subtle background noises without any audible hissing (cd player dependant as well) and really clean mid notes with moderate bass (while using the M60s).
Maybe it's because i've never had a truly quality receiver before but when i paired the Onkyo with my old Technics speakers even they took off and produced sounds that never previously existed.
The m60s however blew the doors off ANYTHING i've heard before (which includes past owned/roomate owned Sound Dynamics, Paradigm, Yamaha, JBL and one or two other Future shoppy names like Bose and Polk). The Angstrom Modular speakers also were incredibly smooth with the Onkyo receiver and i would recommend them as well (but the finish is not nearly as nice and with only 2 options).
I also auditioned B&W 603 series and considered Monitor Audio Silver series but backed away cuz the price.
I'm still working on getting the placement right for the M60s in my basement but i haven't had much time yet to tweak with it. Heck, i still have yet to solder on my banana plugs.
Bottom line, the Onkyo DS797 (or for that matter similar models like 898 and 989) really make the M60s shine for all they are worth.
Avoid the Pioneers! They melt eggs.
