recommended audio amplifier/receiver

Hey kids,
in the last few weeks our amplifier/receiver has gradually lost its grasp on reality.

I've talked to Pioneer and their authorised repairer and it looks like the HDMI board has fritzed and parts and labour would cost more than an equivalent replacement.

anyone have any preferred 5.1 channel home theatre receiver preferences/recommendations. I'm not keen on pioneer, this thing only lasted 6 or 7 years. I think our budget is around the $500 mark, something that works well but doesn't need to be incredible.