Need multi-channel that's great on 2 channel

Thank you.....great advice. I will take it seriously.....
Jeff

I run a Dared DV-6C multichannel analogue integrated amp. It is a Hybrid Integrated tube pre/ solid state 65x6. It's quality way surpassed my Parasound HCA 2205AT 220x5 power amp and my Onkyo Pro SC-885 prep processor priced at $4500 list. The Dared was $425 shipped to my door. A no-brainer...Sounds excellent for movies and music. ..Check it out.....

Another vote here for using a 2 channel preamp with HT bypass connected to the AVR pre-outs. Here's a thread with a list of preamps with a HT bypass:
http://www.polkaudio.com/forums/showthread.php?90594-Preamp-with-HT-bypass

Hello everyone,
Again, I've really appreciated everyone's feedback; it's been most helpful.

What I've decided to do is go with two separate systems: my home theater system, based around my Marantz SR 7005; and then my two-channel system, based around my old Arcam Alpha 9 integrated and power amps, which I will bi-amp with my B&W 805's.

The Arcams returned from a trip to Audio Doctor in Phoenix, which is an authorized Arcam service center (Cornell Smith was most helpful); he replaced the capacitors, but otherwise found the units in perfect shape. He also cleaned/checked-up my Arcam Alpha 9 CD and Arcam MCD players; both are in great shape.

This is a work in progress; I will be upgrading the amplifiers...but in the meantime, I am buying a Furman reference 15i power conditioner; I've also purchased some beautiful racks from Timbernation; I plan to buy a better interconnect for the Alpha's; I have Kimber 8tc speaker wire....and Kimber PBJ interconnects for my CD sources.

I also have a Marantz 6300 turntable,which is my restoration project.

As for my home theater, the Marantz has been wonderful. My speakers are Mirage Nanosats; I plan to upgrade them, too....but for what I use that system for...they're perfectly fine for now. My main source will be a Marantz UD/7006 BD/SACD.

So...mid-fi, with some high-end flourishes. Both systems will improve with time.

Please feel free with chime-in with suggestions; always open to that, and thanks, again, for taking the time to read my thread.

Jeff

Sounds like you have a good solution in the works. Even without the pre-amp having a HT bypass you can use it in that mode by connecting the L/R pre-outs of the receiver as a input to the pre-amp and setting the volume levels on the pre at a reproducible level. That would allow you to use your B&Ws for movies also. If you want to match the front 3 speakers you could then upgrade the center to a B&W center and continue to drive it with the receiver.