I am looking for a receiver in the $700-$1,000 range.
I like the idea of having 7.1 channels, because I want 5.1 home theatre set-up plus 2 stero speakers in a separate room. I also don't want to deal w/ quality control issues. Based on this forum, this rules out the NAD 753.
I also want enough amp power to grive my 6 ohm Vienna Coustic (Bach) and want higher end sound in general. From this forum, this potentially rules out the Denon 3805.
Where does that leave me? Is the Marantz 7400 a good option?
Robert, I do not know the sonic characteristics of your Vienna speakers but for power considerations alone the Denon 3805 has measured out as good as any of the others listed. I have other problems with Denon thought so if the Vienna's match well with a mellower receiver then the Elite 55 is a great choice and can be had for $899 at dynaco.com. I also like the Marantz 7400 and the NAD 753 and 763. It all depends on what matches best with your speakers.