Don't go down the Meridian road unless you are addicted to the sound of Meridian processors. I owned a Denon receiver a very long time ago, and I presume that their equipment lines have improved drastically over the years. My estimation and experience is that the gap between what is deemed lo-fi and what is deemed hi-fi has shrunken tremendously (look at transports for example). Nevertheless, I am with Meridian because of a certain musicality in their processors that I have not heard elsewhere. This is despite the expensive problems I have had with them. I won't change processors because of the sound.

For a bit of perspective, I've jumped from a 561 to a 568 to a G68. The jump from 561 to 568 was huge to my ears in bass quality, but to most it would be minute. The jump from 568 to G68 was far more different, than better (I actually regret the investment in hindsight). And in another recent thread, someowners have claimed that the G68 is no different than the 861 in terms of sound quality. I say all this to point out that the entry point to Meridian processors is the key.

Don't go thinking that you have to have the latest processor or build an entire Meridian system. If I were in your shoes, and the Meridian sound is what I was after, I would actually shift my budget entirely. I would spend the money on better L, R & C speakers, and a good matching amplifier. If you were stuck on the Meridian sound, buy a second hand 568. But in the end, if you are only looking for great sound, there are plenty of other options for less money (Arcam and Anthem for example). One last thing, don't forget that you are paying $$$$$ for the Meridian brand as well. A lot of what they sell is vastly overpriced IMO.