Krell v. Theta

Thanks for the great responses! I think the two preamp suggestions are good. However, I am concerned about integration difficulties. Can you guys recommend a good 2 ch. preamp for music with an HT preamp that work well together?

I believe the Audible Illusions L2 line stage has an A/V passthrough. I'm not entirely sure how this is implemented but I asked my salesman in passing and he said, ya, sure, that would work great. The L2 retails at approximately $2300.00 new.

Anyone with an L2 that can comment on how this works?

Both Krells have passthrough, I think.

I know that this is a preamp based question, but if any of you folks have experience on the amp side of things, I am considering Krell (FPB300cx with a KAV-3250) and Theta (Enterprise mono's and/or Dreadnaught II) myself. Any thoughts or comparisons between Krell and Theta amplification would be appreciated.

Thanks, Tom.

Having purchased Theta Digital amps (two Enterprises and an Intrepid), I am now considering this very question of Krell or Theta for a pre/pro. Although I would certainly consider either the Krell Showcase or Theta Casa Nova, ideally, I'd like to be in a Krell HTS 7.1 or a Theta CasablancaIII. Any more specific comments on these pre/pros?

Tom.