I am looking for a new home theatre setup. I currently have a Denon 1803 with JMlab Focals in a custom built box (similar to mini Utopia). The Denon 1803 is definitely not sufficient to drive the Focals but it has gotten me by for the last year. I am looking to upgrade to a new receiver as well as new speakers since the custom built box is too big for my new place. Long story short, I've looked at reviews for the Denon 4306, the Pioneer Elite VSX-74TXVi, Rotel 1056, and the Arcam AVR 250/300. My room is 13 X 15 but it's an open space. Comments on any of the listed receivers. Also, is HDMI a key factor in the decision process. I've been told that some component video can deliver better quality than HDMI depending on who the maker is.
On the speakers side, I've been really impressed w/ the B&W XT4 although it's a bit above my budget. Any suggestion on nice looking speakers that would go well w/ a silver plasma TV that also sound good. I do HT 60% and music 40%.