+1 on the prior post by Zd542
There is no HT multi-channel preamp / processor that can measure up in performance to a quality built high-end 2 channel kit .... Full stop. You are looking at a compromise in two channel audio performance if you do.
Your work-around solution?
(1) Use a hi-end 2 channel integrated amp to drive the L and R speakers in two channel listening mode to preserve that audio performance excellence that the 2 channel provides.This amp will be equipped with a direct pass -through switch for the multi-channel AV pre-pro signals when it is engaged for multi-channel use = LF and RF speaker mode.
(2) Buy a quality multi-channel AV preamp/processor strictly for HT, and add in the requisite separate unit power amp(s) for the centre channel , rears, and surrounds.
Now the "primary" two channel audio performance is not compromised. Of course, this intuitively also suggests also having a separate matched high-end two channel audio source to the integrated amp, independent of the "ordinary" lesser quality multi channel AV HT spinner into the AV pre-amp/pro, that is bested suited for movies etc.
There is no HT multi-channel preamp / processor that can measure up in performance to a quality built high-end 2 channel kit .... Full stop. You are looking at a compromise in two channel audio performance if you do.
Your work-around solution?
(1) Use a hi-end 2 channel integrated amp to drive the L and R speakers in two channel listening mode to preserve that audio performance excellence that the 2 channel provides.This amp will be equipped with a direct pass -through switch for the multi-channel AV pre-pro signals when it is engaged for multi-channel use = LF and RF speaker mode.
(2) Buy a quality multi-channel AV preamp/processor strictly for HT, and add in the requisite separate unit power amp(s) for the centre channel , rears, and surrounds.
Now the "primary" two channel audio performance is not compromised. Of course, this intuitively also suggests also having a separate matched high-end two channel audio source to the integrated amp, independent of the "ordinary" lesser quality multi channel AV HT spinner into the AV pre-amp/pro, that is bested suited for movies etc.