You might also consider NAD. NAD and H/K are comparable with regards to power output capabilities. I'm quite pleased with my H/K 7200. I use it for HT and Stereo. It drives the M80's effortlessly and louder than I, or my neighbors could ever tolerate. I'm not sure if you can still find the 7200 or not, but it was selling for less than $1000. The 7300 replaced it, but it is outside of your price range. If you can swing the price of the 7300, I doubt you would have any regrets.