If I were buying an AVR for my living room, I would get the Denon 4xxx series for Audyssey XT32 Dynamic EQ dual SubHT EQ & MCH amp pre-out.
Agree. I use, and like each of these features.
Brenton, if you haven't bought an AVR in 12 years, you may not be familiar with these features, thus may not realize how useful they are.
Audyssey XT32
Dynamic EQ
Dual SubHT EQ
Multi Channel pre-outs
When I started seriously moving into HT, I didn't understand the value of these. But I listened to recommendations on this site and got the X4000. As I played with it, the value of these capabilities became apparent, and I now use them all.
If you're looking for a long-time AVR, I suggest you don't limit yourself to only the features with which you're familiar from 12 years ago. Get the X4000, and as the spirit moves you, learn about and experiment w/ all its capabilities. I think you'll be happy.