My experience with the Denon has been that it seems a bit laid back-"dark" sounding.I am afraid I would definately put it down to the workhorse category of amplifiers, even as this seems to contradict my description of an aspect of its character. It seems very powerful, and yet it does not seem to come across with the sort of ease or composure I imagine very powerful amplifiers are bound to convey. Overall, I have grown fond of it, even sentimental about it.It has exceeded my initial expectations for an amplifier, and held its own against my growing expectations.In fact, since I introduced Cdm1 nt into my system I have given the Denon far less consideration, and that has been well over a year now. It has become a good purchase over time. Now, would it be the better buy for you? It could be the best buy given that you never listen to anything else and buy it on reccommendation. Then, should you actually take your speakers to both these amplifiers you may find it unbelievably unqualified for your system. In my own experience pedigree matters, but ultimate value has been hinged on the enjoyment of my system. The Denon still fits into this equation.