What is Good Quality & Simple to use AV receiver?

There isn't a huge selection of choices for AVR's with all digital amplification. The one that comes to my mind is from Panasonic, model SA-XR57S. Which has had decent reviews. Personally, i like diferent AVR's for different reasons. My Cambridge Azur 640R is my reference receiver, but my Yamaha SA-XR57S has an excellent auto setup via microphone, as well as the ability to run pure signal, bypassing tone controls, etc. My old Denon AVR1802 5.1 receiver had an amazing pre-out that I hooked up to an Integra 2.1 receiver. It was the most detailed, nuetral pre out I've ever heard on an AVR. What I mainly look for now in an AVR is the ability to to up-convert analog video to 1080p HDMI. The newer Pioneers are well regarded in this area.

Beecee,

When you are referring to your CA640 being your reference are you speaking of its sound? You also speak highly of your Denon1802. Which is better?
The reason I ask is I used to own the CA640 integrated amp and it was superb sounding. I temporarily use a Denon395 stereo receiver until I find the correct AVR for me. I'm quite fond of CA but have recently been surprised by Denon.

Ultimately, I like the idea of a AVR w/ a Class D amp, like the integrated amps by Cary, Bel Canto, and PS Audio w/ the B&O digital amp section.

Pioneer uses Class D amps in their receivers and they are highly regarded.

Rogmatic,
I thought they only used them in their 2 top of the line receivers, but I may be wrong.

I think that is right - I believe the Pioneer class d amps are only in the SC-07 and SC-05.