Believe it or not - I have a three way tie.
Denon, Marantz, and Yamaha.
Why?
Denon - Cost preference while retaining things such as Audyssey 32XT, I prefer the full view display as well.
Marantz - Even though there are distinct similarities between the two (Denon and Marantz), the Marantz has better opamps and the sound quality seems to shine through a bit better. Marantz looks very good as well.
Yamaha - One reason that Yamaha is up here, it's DSP capabilities.
To me these three represent the pinnacle of the major receiver brands. Cost no object....I'd go Marantz.