Pioneer makes a good unit. I heard somewhere that Pioneer had a problem with some of their Elite Units. If this is true or not maybe someone can confirm this. I know there was a lot of them on the refirbished market.
I personally have the 8200 and I'm really happy with it. I up graded from the Marantz 5000. I know it was less expensive, and has all the same features except the THX Ultra.
What ever you decide, enjoy the music!