$300 for older Rotel/Outlaw or do something else?

Gave it some thought...Look for an Onkyo 606...hint-hint. See how you like it alone and then jack in the amps if you want/feel you need more.

"In fact, you could utilize the hirez codecs via analog to the prepro and let the br player decode/process for you."

True. I keep thinking that HDMI is needed for 1080p, but apparently later models of the RSP-1066 have the bandwidth for HD passthrough.

"See how you like it alone and then jack in the amps if you want/feel you need more."

I took a look at the Onkyo TX-SR606/607, but they only seem to have line outs for a sub or zone 2. I don't see how I can use my amps for the front, center or surround speakers. In the 2 channel world, the last time I counted on a receiver to provide adequate gusto, I was let down. Maybe I'm missing something there?

Does anyone make a low cost, modern (hdmi-equipped) surround preamplifier/processor? Would something new and low cost compete well with a 7 year old, $1500 surround pre/proc?

For my above post, I now realize that I can switch Blu-Ray up to 1080i with the Rotel, but HDMI is required for Blu-Ray output at 1080p. Component cables and the Rotel may be able to handle 1080p, as some 1080p PS3 games apparently can be sent over component cables, but the Blu-Ray spec does not permit it. Or so I've read. Since my panel is 1080p via HDMI or DVI-D, I can output directly to the panel for 1080p Blu-Ray.

The 606/607 should have 'pre-outs' not to be confused with the multi-ch in's. What are you using now? What is your goal. You have ideas but pardon me...no certain goal.direction. What do you want? A modern recv'r or prepro that cost less today than yesteryears 1500 dollar unit will most likely outperform the older. Technology was new and came at a premium. The technology as well as demand has brought prices down all the while getting better at function/versatility. You are quite limited with your budget and you will benefit by purchasing a newer recv'r rather than an older prepro.

I can't find the pre-outs on the Onkyo (other than those mentioned above), maybe I'm missing something, here's the link --> http://www.us.onkyo.com/model.cfm?m=TX-SR607&class=Receiver&p=i

I'm just trying to go from the 2 channel world to the 5 channel world using exiting equipment that sounds great and that I love.

I picked up a Harmon Kardon HK-3480 receiver to fill in for vintage Nikko separates. It is a very well rated receiver with the same wattage as my amp (120wpc). However, it doesn't come close to moving my Snell Type D speakers like the Nikko amp. Not even close.

That is why I'm hesitant to consider an all in one entry level unit. I have three of these amps and in addition to the Snell Type D's for fronts, I have Snell Type M's for the surrounds and a Snell CC-1 for the center. (As an aside, Snell marketed that exact speaker setup in 1996 as "The Dragon Slayer Music & Cinema System".)

At this point, I'm planning on going with the Rotel RSP-1066. I'll add a sub, if I like what I'm hearing.

I just wanted to find out if I was missing something, but it seems that this setup will at least sound O.K. It is the Dragon Slayer after all.