Have an older Onkyo 757, also rated at 75 w/ch. In direct comparison with the Outlaw the 1050 is quite a bit more powerful and articulate. I have noticed all kinds of things on music that went unoticed on the Onkyo. Not sure how it would rate agaist the 797 but I have a feeling that some of these impressions would carry over even if they are matched for power. Onkyo beats it out on bells and whistles, but not on transparent sound.
I also had some trouble with my 1050 after the first week of burn in and was rather upset about having to send it back. When I called them Scott set me at ease very quickly and had a new unit on the way that evening. I was able to keep the old unit until the replacement arrived (1 week). I am now about 1 week into the new burn in phase and so far all is good.
As a Receiver it is the best I have had and inspired new speakers out of me (and more money!!!)
Someday I might go with a pre/pro/amp combo, but until then....

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"Art is not a mirror, but a hammer."