Back to the initial inquiry, comparing the JVC digital receiver to the Panasonic digital receiver (in my case, I have both the ES1 and the XR50).
As pointed out, the Panny's strength is digital input, while the JVC's strength is analog input. So one factor to consider is what type input you will primarily use.
As also noted, the JVC appears to have more "oomph", the ability to drive inefficient or difficult loads (low impedance, widely variant impedance) better than the Panny, without giving up. So another factor to consider is the type of speaker that will be used.
Further, the JVC has an internal fan, the Panny does not. There is some fan noise in the JVC, though from a reasonable distance of say 10 feet it's unobjectionable to me. Thus, another factor is how close you'll be to the receiver in your listening room - the JVC fan might bother some people.
I also have to agree with those who prefer the JVC for music. It has extraordinary control of the speaker, yielding fast transients, excellent microdynamics, and loads of detail. At the same time (and this combination is tough to find in amps), it has an overall warmth and musicality, a heart, that I feel the Panny lacks. Not to say the Panny is bad, it's just more clinical and neutral, which some may prefer and some may not. So, another factor is how you'll use the receiver; if mainly for music, I think the JVC is better; if mainly for home theater, the Panny's shortcomings are probably less significant.
My net take is that, even considering its weaker digital inputs, and even for home theater use, overall the JVC is preferable to the Panny because of its musicality and smoothness, combined with its incredible speaker control. The JVC is sort of like the perfect sweet and sour dish; those two flavors shouldn't work together, and usually don't, but when done right you're amazed how they seem made for each other.
Hope that helps point you in the right direction.
Les
ISF Calibrator Bay Area California
