The economies of scale allow the 7 channel AVR to be cost competitive with a stereo unit (and the AVR typically has much better bass management if you use a sub), but it is your decision. From what you are saying, this sounds like what you are looking for:
http://www.accessories4less.com/mak...al-sound-stereo-receiver-bose-901-comp/1.html
It does have pre-outs so you can add a separate amp later if you need, but this is a pretty solid unit.
I can sell you a SR6001 for $275 shipped which has the exact same amp section (but a few less bells and whistles) as you beloved SR7001. It is in excellent condition.
See this article to see that the amp sections are equal (but you'll have to translate some German):
http://www.connect.de/testbericht/marantz-sr-6001-332122.html