Well, I just picked up my Elite 84 today. I only have two authorized dealers in my area, lowest either would go was $1,299.00 (which comes to $1,377.00) with tax! It also didn't help that neither of the authorized dealers can keep these things in stock!
In any event, while I may not be overly experienced in the audio visual scene, I am extremely experienced in research (attorney by profession). I researched receivers so much in detail and for so long, if a client were paying me, my bill would easily be more than $40,000.00. While I also researched speakers and subwoofers, the receiver was the only category that had a hands down indisputable winner - the Pioneer Elite.
Before Denon and Yammy fans get upset, let me qualify the above. First of all, I am not saying that either Denon and/or Yammy are not also exceptional receivers. Secondly, I am looking at a price point of about $1,500.00. Lastly, my research is centered on this particular point in time. What I mean by this is that it is not uncommon that for a year or two, Denon may have one of the best products on the market. Then that will switch to Yammy or Pioneer as each company keeps trying to play "keep up with and/or beat the Jones'" Currently, the current line Pioneer Elites are exceptional receivers at a very reasonable price point. Comparison wise, they beat just about anything in their price range and compare to far more expensive models. This does not however mean that next year this will not change.
Pioneer has had a sorted history. While never really producing garbage, it never seemed to be able to gain the respect that either the Denon or Yammy line did. Every so often, Pioneer would hit the nail on the head with one or two of its products, but this seemed somewhat haphazard. However, the current line of Elites, was no mistake.
Pioneer intentionally set out to do exactly what they did. By seeking out the likes of THX and Air Studios, they actually received the advice and assistance that it needed to produce a truly exceptional product. Pioneers have always received good reviews for producing a warm, natural sound and has made a great effort to gain respect in the lower priced high-end market. You can't go wrong with the Pioneer right now. However, to be honest, you probably can't go wrong with the Denon or the Yammy either.
Of course the above comes from countless hours of research, more "expert" opinions than I can count, reviews and trade journals, but not from experience (yet). Mine has not made it out of the box (just the manual). It will actually probably live in there for at least a few weeks until my speakers and sub arrive. I will say this however, from a novice at this, I do find the Pioneer somewhat intimidating. So many controls and settings, I am still overwhelmed and can't even imagine how I will pick the right settings in order to get best sound (but I'm only on page 32 of a 90 manual!). And now (after reading this thread) I'm little upset at apparently paying $400 more than I had too!
In any event, the above is obviously just my opinion - well, actually its really other peoples' opinions that I have used as my own - but opinion nonetheless. However, I really think you will be hard pressed to find a better receiver, in today's market, for a better price.
