drunkonjack, how do the two processors stack up with regards to ease of use? I really want my wife to not be too intimidated with the setup, especially since she was nice enough to let me put 8 speakers in our living room

Merlin and gonk, thanks for your thoughts on digital amps. I'm so intrigued with the Nuforce amplifiers. All of the reviews I've read make them out to sound nothing short of revolutionary, and many are comparing them to models that I'll never be able to afford. Unfortunately, I can't swing the cost for the Nuforce amps either. I have considered getting two of them to go along with a 7500, but that is still a drastic expense.

Also, I've recommended those Panasonic receivers to some friends that are looking at getting their first (and very inexpensive) home theater setups (based upon their reviews and cost). I'm anxious to hear them myself when the first order comes in.

Thanks again,

Tom