Denon, Sony, Poineer

[Justyntym]

Assuming I can't snag an ONKYO 606...

How do Denon stack up and which ones are recommended.
Really interested in those.
My source is a PS3...

also I wouldn't mind a Sony or a Pioneer but if someone would give
me a nudge which ones are worthy and which ones to steer clear of...

I've been reading a bit lately but honestly, I haven't looked at surround
sound or even high fidelity systems in quite a few years and all the ins and
outs and trying to catch up can get a tad confusing and overwhelming...

Love to snag a 606 for $299 but don't RRReally want to go as high as $500
but the key word for me is VALUE...if I can get a really kickin reciever for $500
that plays and has quality of a more expensive unit and is that much better
than a cheaper one...I'd do it. But bear in mind it's all comming from a ps3
so I don't want to waste money for features I can't even use.

Wish someone who really knew what they were doing just tell me...
buy this one this one or this one
(and a why would be neat to not required)

Thanks for any help I can get.