My sister’s old receiver (Dolby Surround era) needs to be replaced and she asked me for advice for a new one. She just wants something basic and easy to use. Her budget is around $400 more or less. I'm thinking maybe one of the lower cost Denon's but thought I'd ask here what would be some other good reliable low-end units to consider?

I'd look seriously at Yamaha RX-A units. But I'm an installer...

Your choices are going to be driven by how many sources she has and how many she's going to want before she replaces this new receiver. Look that way.

She has combined the two things that go together: basic, and easy to use. Not basic usually means capable, which means not so easy to use.

I like Denon's "quick select" feature on their remotes. You can assign each QS button a source, surround mode, and volume level that it will recall whenever you press that button. Makes it easier to teach people who "do not need an expensive remote" or simply cannot afford it. :)

I am sure there are other AVRs with similar features.

If you need Analog to HDMI conversion, I would go with a 1912 as the lowest choice.

I'm leaning towards the 1912, as I do think I'll need the conversion. Also I think the quick select buttons will appeal to my sister. Al

The Quick Selects offer the ability to store Source (which will also trigger Power On), DSP, Preset Volume and Audyssey settings which will make the unit super easy to use. Oh, and there is an App for that!

I hope she enjoys her new Denon AVR.

I'm with Ernie. The RX-A series are great. Tie in an internet feed and you have a ton of listening options, including Pandora, Internet Radio (which alone offers a ton of free content), Sirius Internet, Rhapsody, and more. You can plug a USB thumb drive or iPod into the front and get full control with the remote and view on the TV. You can also connect to your TV. The biggest plus though if you are looking for two zone control is the free iPod/iPad app. This app gives you control of both the main zone and zone 2 from the app. You can see AND select your music for your internet based "apps" on the receiver as well as see and select your music from your iPod. You can also stream music directly from the iPod/iPad you are using for control straight to the receiver to play in either zone. They could easily charge a lot of money for the app but it is offered free.

They do also upconvert all analog signals to HDMI. I know they start above your price range, but well worth it. The 1912 also is above your price range as well.

Denon 591 is a good choice in that price range. Wouldn't go lower to the 391.

Unless she's got a 2nd set of speakers in another room.

UPDATE - Oops, never mind. One of the component cables was not properly seated in the DVD player. Working fine now.
Well, I went up in budget and actually got her the 1912 as a gift. I have everything set up and working except the DVD player which only has component, no HDMI. I'm getting sound from digital coax but no picture. I assume there is a setting I need to make? I have not been able to find anything about it in the manual. Can Matt or anyone advise? Thanks, Al