I can't believe I missed this thread. I would like to clear the air however. I am not an Onkyo Fanboy. I think that Onkyo's recent line of products has high value and pretty much tops everyone in terms of features and power for the same price. If Yamaha comes out with a line like that next year, guess what, I am going to be recommending them left and right. I don't think that Onkyo is the best, or an end all, but someone has to admit, they offer more for less (at least in terms of new gear).
You guys should know me already, I am a fanboy of USED AUDIO and REFURBISHED AUDIO, because they are cheap. Not everyone feels that way, most people don't feel that way. If I recommended to everyone to shop refurb and used what would happen?