Receiver-- good stereo sound quality

Huijames: If you are putting together a system that is going to serve double duty as a music system and then as a home theater system, then I only have one suggestion as far as a home theater receiver goes. NAD!!!! Is there anything else out there worth considering?? I think not. --Charles--

Add Nakamichi AV-10 to your audition list.

I bought a Denon 2800 listing at $800, for HT use only but was pleasantly surprised at it's ability to play music. I now use it for music when serious listening is'nt on the menu and find it to very satisfying.

You're not going to find a good audiophile receiver for that price. B&K make a nice Stereo A/V peamp for 2 channel applications, the PT 3 you may consider inthat price range. For a little more money the B&K AVR series. I've seen a few used ones on ebay and here. Best DC

Huijames You have my sympathy. You ask a simple question and get 9 different answers. Now what does that tell you? It tells me this. You need to make a short list of some of the above. If there is a dealer close by go and listen. After listening YOU make a decision based on your criteria. You really aren't going to get "outstanding" 2 channel sound from a 800.00 receiver but it may be good enough for you. You can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear. That said I always found NAD gear in your price range very good indeed and would definitely include it in your short list. Good luck in your journey.