If Marantz designed this so Audyssey can be used with the HD codecs over HDMI....I'd say they've created one heck of a receiver...
I guess the decrease in inputs doesn't bother me... For the 5004 - 3 HDMI, 2 coax & 2 optical, along with some analog and a few video connections that I don't need....
Plus, you still get pre-amp outs (although a 2nd sub out would be nice), and they've added Audyssey Dynamic EQ & Dynamic volume...
In fact, if they finally added independent crossovers like Denon has, the 5004 would be the perfect AVR for me...
EDIT: checked the manual, and it looks like Marantz still hasn't added independent crossover settings....damn...