Best Mainstream Receiver for 2 Channel Audio

For stereo sound quality, the best 5.1 avr is the Arcam avr 350, without a doubt. You should be able to purchase a used one (maybe even a new one since they don't offer hdmi audio processing) for what you are willing to spend without much effort. Every evaluation I have read and performed my self has shown the Arcam avr 350 to have a leg up on all the competition. However, like I said, this is an older unit and does not offer hdmi audio. You can still get hd playback with analogue transmission. That's what I do and it works just fine.

Thanks for all the input so far. I looked at Outlaw Audio but have ruled them out due to lack of HDMI. The Arcam is definitely intriguing, if pricier. Of the more mainstream brands, is it then consensus that Onkyo/Integra is the brand to get? I had been leaning toward Denon or Sony actually, but they don't seem to be recommended as much.

You might also want check out Marantz (e.g., S8002), if you are considering mainstream (e.g., Onkyo). I've been pretty happy with its 2-channel performance.

(for what it's worth-a dealer's opinion)

I've noticed that Marantz has upgraded the lower end models to SRx003 models. Do you know if an SR8003 is imminent?

I would suggest buying an SR800x used. They are built like tanks and sound great for a mainstream receiver.