I went from an HK AVR435 to the Outlaw 1070 and thought the improvement in sound quality, particulary for music was substantial. I also have 95dB sensitivity towers for front speakers and 91dB-93dB for center and rears. The noise floor is non-existant with the Outlaw --- seriously. I also find that musical instruments are more cleanly separated from each other than with the HK. Voices sound very natural, I found that there was excessive sibilance with the HK.

The 970/7125 should be even better, although with efficient speakers you may want to consider the 990/7075 instead for an extra $100.