There is a useful tool called (IIRC) a PMI chart, where you list plus, minus, and interesting differences. I find it useful since not all differences fit neatly into plus/minus categories.
My personal list would be something like this:
950 vs RCVR
Plus:
- DTS-ES discrete
- separate adjustable crossovers freq for mains, center, and surrounds
- Decoupled processing from amps
- Analog bypass for stereo two-channel inputs
- 5 year transferable warranty
- on-line community of users
- manufacturer that works hard on customer service
Minus:
- No up Conversion of S-Video to Component
- No THX decoding (a variation of Dolby Digital / Dolby Digital EX)
- No autoswitch between a digital signal and an analog signal
- No 7.1 preamp inputs, just 5.1
Interesting:
- No DSP modes (not important to most)
- Limited analog bass management on 950
- No THX certification (may or may not be important)
Or something like that.