A/V Receiver or Separates

If you are interested in a good 2 channel listening
experience, then stay away from an AVR and even separate HT
pre/pros. These types of components are designed and built
for digital, multi channel reproduction and the stereo pre-
amp sections in them, even in so called "Pure
Direct" mode are an after thought.

After a ten plus year affair with the HT mistress and always
being left unsatisfied, I rediscovered my 2 channel roots
and couldn't be happier. And I had some flagship AVR's and
even Parasound HT separates which IMO, were not suitable for
stereo music.

Here is what I did to save space and still have one
installation...Got a high quality 2 channel integrated amp
with a HT Bypass feature. It always powers my L/R Mains. I
use its internal pre-amp for all vinyl & cd playing as these
sources are plugged directly into the integrated. So in
essence, its a 2 channel system. But when I listen to
multi-channel (movie or concert), the integrated acts as
just a power amp with the press of a button. Multi-channel
sources are then controlled by an AVR which also powers just
the center and surrounds. Just make sure the integrated has
an HT Bypass feasture and of course, the AVR need pre-outs.

If you just listen to Rock a AVR is all you need, for acoustic music esp. jazz and classical ,separates.

I bought a Lexicon RV 8 AV receiver.
WOW! it has made an incredible difference in everything from LPs to SACDs and TV listening.
I've never heard anything like it. It's like 2 lbs of cotton have been removed from my ears. The sound is clear as a bell, not fatiguing. Great separation.
Couldn't be happier.