Wait
From a question that I posted earlier, the general concensus seems to be to wait for HDMI 1.3 (current is HDMI 1.1). HDMI has several advantages (one cable for audio + video, all digital connection) but a few problems as well (sometimes menus don't show up over HDMI, HDCP support is "iffy"). I am contemplating the same thing - I have a 50" plasma TV and I tested the HDMI connection from my cable set-top box, and it worked fine.
As far as the quality, I didn't notice much difference between the HDMI connection and the component connection in high def resolution.
In your case though, I'm guessing that the only reason for you to add the receiver would be for surround sound through your own speakers, which can easily be accomplished without using HDMI as well. Do you plan on having multiple sources (DVD, High-def Cable / satellite, etc.)? I ask because if you plan on having the one source, there are much cheaper options available if you for get about the HDMI.
FYI - In my case, I don't need the surround features, I'm mostly interested in HDMI switching and analog upconversion to HDMI and the "single cable to the TV", which is why i'm still thinking about it.
