Please Recommend 5 ch Amp that...


is around $2000 used or new, 120W-150W per channel, and
preferably THX certified and with balanced in.

currently looking at Bryston 9b-thx, and really want one of these, but seems to be little bit over my budget...
eandylee
The little Krell Kav-500 has those features (I own one) and can be bought for less than your price.

OR, check this power-house out http://ww3.onecall.com/PID_724.htm

I don't know if it has balanced inputs and needs 20A outlet but for the cost you could add a dedicated line and be under $2,000.

Dave
I would recommend a used Bryston 9B-ST like you originally wanted. You could get one on Audiogon if you wait.

There is currently a cheap newly listed Brand New Aragon (newer version) that is 200x5, THX Ultra 2 for dirt cheap.

http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampsmult&1102102181

Theres lots of alternatives so its up to you.
I'm also thinking about the newer Bryston 150W 3B SST for fronts +120W 3channel 5B ST for center and rears

I guess, this way, 2 channel sound will definitely be better, but wondering if 5 channel movie or music performance will not be as good as getting 9B ST...

I guess, as alwasy, I will end up spend little bit more than my original budget... but I think Bryston is worth it for now and for long run...

I like the McIntosh MC126 a lot. It is a little warmer than the Bryston and will definately be in for the long run. The MC206 is even better but it is (still) expensive.