Your budget might also stretch further if you look into a nice used receiver, or a demo from a dealer. You could likely find something at least a couple models above what you can afford new. Check dor possible deals on E-Bay too (yes, they can be had there if you know what you are looking for, and its value).
I agree with Kelly though, Onkyo, Denon and Yamaha, and I would add Outlaw, are the brands to consider. I'm a fan of some of the Sony ES stuff, but its only the seperates that truly shine.
Hope that helps.