The Onkyo 805 receiver is my receiver of choice at the moment. I don't have a lot of insight as to the Pioneer gear but I am waiting for their cost no object receiver to hit after CES. But for $800 or less (if you shop smart) the Onkyo 805 will do everything you need and more. Plus it sounds amazing. Check out the review here:
http://www.avrev.com/equip/onkyo_txsr805_receiver/