I had an entry level HK factory refurbished stereo receiver, a 3340 I believe, for a 2.1 HT system that was of secondary importance to me/family. Loved the heavy power trannies/caps and it sounded better than my Rotel (a stereo A/V receiver, just what you're looking for if, frankly it had a better sound and was newer).
But the HK kept developing severe left channel distortion. Came with a 2 year warrantee, so I didn't pay. Explanation at the repair shop was blown diodes. The factory really stood behind the warrantee and in fact wanted to know the initials on the backside sticker (for quality control purposes). If I could have gotten it back to the shop a 3rd time under warrantee they would have replaced it at no charge. Not much of a risk for $160 I suppose.
As it didn't get used much, the thing would sit (blown again without my knowledge) and the warrantee expired way too soon. As we were building our house the "while we at its" dictated that we wire the new TV room for at least 5.1. So when I finally got around to replacing it, it was with a cheapy Sony 6.1 receiver.
For just watching TV, I rarely use the receiver/external speakers (maybe for a big game with guests or a concert). If that's you, I'd consider a small quality integrated amp with those highly efficient Zu speakers. Having a remote would be a less importance if you have get up to stick a DVD in anyway. You could even use an inexpensive SET if you want to avoid class D or T amps.
