Both the SC-05 and 3808 would have enough power for most speaker configurations (headroom as well) in all but the largest of rooms. Each should also be very linear under their normal operating conditions. The SC-05 is a very sexy looking receiver though, it would definitely be my choice if it where the 3808 and SC-05 where on my plate.
What speakers and subwoofer do you have bklyn1028? Make sure you have all speakers set to small and that the AVR's x-over is set around 80-100hz. Let the subwoofer take care of the low end. If you are losing dynamics on the low end it may be due to subwoofer placement, or maybe you just need a bigger subwoofer (or two

). If you are losing dynamic performance with the rest of your speakers make sure you have any dynamic compression functions disabled on the AVR. Unless the speakers you have are very demanding of power, or the room is too large for the speakers and receiver, you should have more than enough power from the 1909.
I hope this helps.