My favorite Pre/pro was Bryston's SP1.7. It has NO video switching however. Used mostly for music (80% or better) and 10-20% movies FWIW. I, like Islandflyfisher, dont care for video switching.
I auditioned and liked, Sunfire, Integra, and Krell, plus a few others. But those were the top four IMO.
Here I am sounding like a broken record, but I strongly suggest in-home auditions if your dealer allows them.