At $500? That is tough. The act 3 is a veritable bargain in this price range. But it isn't the quietest in comparison to some. So that's probably out.
I'd probably consider used Thule 5.1 dd/dts piece. The Outlaw 950 is good sounding for the money for certain, but a little shy on dynamics IME.
Actually, dare I say it, but a used receiver from Yamaha makes for a good AV pre/pro for movies. Anyway, seems to be detailed enough (most better than, say, a Classe SSP25), and rather dynamic used as a pre/pro. For cheep some of these more recent pieces are worth a try.
Remember, for $500, you don't have much choice. Still, not bad
I'd probably consider used Thule 5.1 dd/dts piece. The Outlaw 950 is good sounding for the money for certain, but a little shy on dynamics IME.
Actually, dare I say it, but a used receiver from Yamaha makes for a good AV pre/pro for movies. Anyway, seems to be detailed enough (most better than, say, a Classe SSP25), and rather dynamic used as a pre/pro. For cheep some of these more recent pieces are worth a try.
Remember, for $500, you don't have much choice. Still, not bad