What do you guys think of the new receivers from Onkyo and Pioneer. I was considering exchanging my Denon 3310 to an Onkyo 609 or a Pioneer 1021. Since that here in Japan we can´t get extended warranty I am a bit worried about my receiver since it went to repair and needed a new main board changed, after only 4 months using it.

Ichigo, it's unfortunate that your 3310 needs repairs, but those things happen occasionally even with fine units like that. Since this one problem developed during the warranty period, it was covered, and it's highly unlikely that there will be any more trouble. I'd suggest that you stay with it. Don't worry about extended warranties; they're generally a waste of money.

If you definitely want to change, the two that you list seem to be a bit of a step down from the 3310. I'd suggest that instead the Onkyo 709 would be a better choice with more advanced features.

The Pioneer Elite VSX-33 might also be an option?

Thanks for the tip. The only problem is that right now it is over my budget since I am still buying a pair of speakers which I haven't figure it out yet. Even though I love my Axioms it is really tempting to try out some other brands. (was considering the M3's) Well I just sent an e-mail to tiger direct, if I am not mistaken they ship internationally and the price of the AV receiver would then be on my budget. In US is around $800 and here in Japan the best price I got is around $1250. Since I cam sell my Denon for $500 so just need to pay the difference then.

Here in Japan there is no Pioneer Elite models. I guess that the closest to the one you pointed out would be the VSA-LX53 maybe. Would you consider that a step up from my Denon?

I don't know the VSA-LX53. I thought Pioneer was a Japanese company? What models do they have there?

Quite honestly I don't think you will notice much audio difference from any of these compared to the Denon. There may be a different set of features, and you will need to look up the product page for each receiver and do comparisons.

Pioneer Elite is an American thing where the "Elite" models can not be sold online, and only by select establishments. In Europe and Asia the Elite models have different model numbers that just look like higher numbered versions of the regular line.

I vote for saving your money and keeping the denon

That´s what I am going to do. Thanks for all the support and tips guys.