thx certifies that the product passes a certain series of tests that prove that it meets thx specs (which thx says are best). it is a way to validate what a manufacturer says it has and what it really has without having to take someones word for it. the knock against thx is that it adds cost and is not really necessary, because most equipment that is good, meets the specs but just chooses against the thx process to save $$$. thx in and of itself does not make any product better than a non thx one, but it does provide info as to the validity of a manufacturers claims... being an internet only company i think outlaw would see some more sales by adding something that makes most people more comfortable. i mean if you had two products that were identical, one thx certified and one not, wouldnt you buy the thx one just to be sure. the question is at what price would you not be willing to buy the thx one... separates vs receivers are an entirely different beast, but for exampe the denon 5803 is as good as most separates it just lacks some flexibility and appeal of saying i have separates. separates are interesting because they are sometimes upgradeable whereas a receiver hardly ever is, plus you could just buy a new processor keeping your old amp, instead of having to buy a whole new system with each advance. thx also adds some processing options which are typically done by other things as well, i.e. thx ex = dolby digital ex, etc. if i could demo an outlaw against some other product, the need for thx would drop away, but seeing as you have to get it, try it, and then pay to ship it back if you dont like it, thx cert. would make me a little more comfortable as to getting it in the first place. i dont own stock in outlaw or know any of them personally so i dont trust them anymore than any other company, that is why its nice to have a third partys opinion. price is probably what will dictate the choice, but id be willing to spend a LITTLE more for it.