Which receiver to fully utilize my Pioneer BDP-51FD? (1 Viewer)

[Six Star]

Since purchasing a Pioneer BDP-51FD, I'd like to replace my LG HT in a box (HT936TA) receiver/DVD with a 'proper' receiver.
Should I stick with Pioneer, or is there another brand of receiver that will work just as well with my BDP-51FD, without breaking the bank?

If I buy a 5.1 receiver, will I "lose" anything with the BDP-51FD even though I don't have a 7.1 speaker set up? (I have 5.1)
TV is an LG 42PG20.

 

[Bob McElfresh]

I'm a big fan of Yamaha and I would be happy with any receiver with the Denon logo in my rack.

But the receiver line that is getting lots of nods and appearing on the Editors Choice or Best Of the Year lists is the Onkyo TX-SR 505, 605 and 705 receivers.

These things start at $380 - but pack a lot of bells that people want like multiple HDMI connections, analog-to-hdmi conversion, auto speaker calibration, iPod/xm connections, etc.

 

[Six Star]

Thanks Bob...I've been looking at the Onkyo lineup over the past few days and yes, they do seem to offer a big bang for the buck, particularly the TX-SR606. I have also looked at the Yamaha RX-V663 and the Sony STRDG820, both of which offer similar specs to the Onkyo equivalent(s), but cost more.
Harmon-Karden also seem to have a good lineup of affordable receivers, and they also have 4 ohm switching capability, which would mean I could utilize my LG Home Theatre speakers.
Mike