Please feel safe to purchase the AVR 235. From the specification of the Epic Grand Master, it doesn't look like it requires huge power to drive it. Of course, if money is no issue you can go all the way.

From my stereo experience, you need to pitch in 50% or more money to get the extra 5-10% performance. Like buyiny a car, a 1.5 litre and a 5.0 litre can achieve the same goal - to get you from point a to point b. The 5.0 litre car may bring you the power you may require (people can say it may save your life) or your self satisfaction when driving along the street (with people admiring faces). However, how often you really have to step the pedal to the bottom?

Some people may tell a difference if 2 sets of receiver are doing the comparison side by side. When people go home to listen to your system, most will soon get use to and satisfy with what they have (unless their ears have been trained to appreciate hi end equipment).

Remember, music and AV are for enjoyment. If you enjoy it, then it is a 'good' system until some 'experts' come to comment on your system oneday and you'll start wondering whether you should upgrade or not.

It is only my personal opinion and doesn't intend to insult any experts around in this forum.

Good luck to your purchase.