Stereo vs. Digital receivers

guys and gals,

I'm pretty sure I only need a stereo receiver, and I've seen that both H/K and Marantz make them, IMO two of the best budget manufacturers. They would also go well with the speakers I'm planning to get, which I've narrowed down to between the Paradigm Monitor 7's and Athena AS-F2.2.

Only problem is, from reading extensively online apparently receiver makers aren't pouring their R&D or effort into stereo receivers since no one buys em anymore, and they aren't even as good at cranking out stereo sound as the manufacturer's digital receivers! I don't need all the gizmos, I just want as good a sounding receiver as possible for under $400 (street price).

So whats the deal? Anyone else know about the stereo receivers (HK-3480, Marantz SR4320) sounding crappier than the digital ones?

Wes