Receiver Upgrade

I just replaced my current 5.1 setup with a bunch of brand new Athena's which has in turn pushed me over the edge of replacing my receiver. With the new speakers installed I am aching for some nice clean power. On a side note I replaced a Definitive Technologies Procinema 200 setup wtih the Athena's and couldn't believe the difference. Anyway, I have been reading up on all the new receivers. My current one doesn't have HDMI capabilites so I am looking forward to adding that and removing the HDMI switching duties from my Mits. DLP. Budget wise I am looking at staying in the $700 range. What are some of the suggestions in that area with good clean amplifiers? I have primarily been focusing on HK, Denon, Pioneer Elite, but am open to discussing all suggestions.