Spooky, forget about the subjective reviews of the character sound of receivers. The rumours/reports have very little factual basis and certainly no measurable basis to make such conclusions.
The Denon will perform just fine.
Work on the room acoustics instead.

Bigjohn,
I know i also recommended the Denon, but if it is any consolation, I own an Onkyo!


"Those who preach the myths of audio are ignorant of truth."