HT pre-amp/proccessor advise.

Thanks for all of your responses. I'd really like to hear more about your AR Pre-2 if you find time. The all analog unit looks decnet, but I also run a digital output from the cable box to my pre-amp so I can listen to movies coming off the cable (HDTV) in DD 5.1. Therfore, I would probably lean more toward the Pre-2. And as for the new Outlaw, yes, I have been giving it some serious consideration. I've always been happy with the switching, HT performance, etc. of the 950. The anlog section is also very good, but just not quite as detailed as I'd like, but as you said, many are saying the new unit in vastly improved in this area. Good thing about the Outlaws is they let you test drive. I also read the 990 was based on the same platform as the Sherwood, but I'm curious as to why you chose the Sherwood, and if you don't mind, how much did you have to pay? The 990 has balanced outputs for all channels and DVI as well as component. Just trying to figure how you gave the edge to the Sherwood. Thanks again for your time and responses, I appreicate it.

Try the Rotel 1066 pre/pro. Its exactly what your looking for. You can get one for around 800-900.00 used.

The Pre-2 DSP is a really great processor. It may not do all of the whiz-bang things that Sony's and the like will do but it does do what it was designed to do very well. My only gripe is that the remote absolutely sucks. This can be amended with a $35 Sony learning remote. After the thing is set up properly all you need is the ability to switch inputs and change the volume.

Good luck!

If you don't care about DPLII and ok with 5.1

consider Bryston SP1 as well

I guess the only further information I could give concerning the Pre-2 DSP would be to again point out that the pre-amp portion is top notch. Forget the processing for a moment. It does audio VERY well! The sound is natural and very detailed - it has almost a "tube-like" characteristic. It is not cold or analytical like so many "all-digital" pre-amps can be.
You will get many recommendation in this price range and several will be everything they are made out to be. In the end it will be what works best for you.
For what it's worth, I can tell you that I auditioned only 2 preamps - mainly because switching them out was a pain in the A@#! - I rolled the dice on the AR never having heard it or owned any other AR gear. It was a fortunate (lucky) move on my part as it is the best peramp I have ever owned!