Steve: yes, both receivers (3805, R-965) have PLIIx but the Sherwoods don't have a room EQ, which might be the dealbreaker. Although, the remote of the Sherwood is definately better and the design to (for me). Stefan.
Jeff: Is the R-965 pre-amplifier really identical to the P-965 (components like BurrBrown DAC's). So I guess at uncritical loundspeakers the soundquality of the receiver and the pre/pro plus power amplifier is comparable - true?? Currently I own an Sherwood 963 and I'm really satisfied...