Best Receiver for my $1500 budget?

[Dust]

I'm looking to upgrade my receiver, then speakers.

My budget for a receiver is around $1500. I've been looking at Pioneer, Yamaha, and Denon. I'm open for other suggestions as well. You can look in my signature for my plasma & BD model info.

I'm also looking at upgrading my speakers (considering the Mirage OM Design series). But, at this time, speakers are not important. (Gotta do this one step at a time.)

I do want 4 HDMI 1.3 inputs for future expansion purposes.

I prefer replies from members who have actual experience (either own their recommendation or have first-hand experience with it). Any help/advice will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!