HT Pre/Pro 7.2 Upgrade???


I have a good friend that is using a B&K Reference 50 in his 7.2 home theatre system. He's owned the Ref 50 since new and is very partial to it. I'm trying to convince him to upgrade and make the move but we are having trouble figuring out what to upgrade to. 

Some of the requirements are as follows:
  • 7.2 channel capable
  • HDMI 
  • black in color
  • comparable or better in sound to the Ref 50
  • must have a remote
  • prefer used as the price is typically better
  • removable power cord (IEC plug)
If I think of anything else I'll add to it. 

His current system includes Oppo 105, B&K Ref 50, 2 Carver TFM-55x amps, 1 Carver A753X, Martin Logan Odyssey (mains), Martin Logan SL3 (side surround), Martin Logan Aires I (surrounds), and Martin Logan Theatre (center). 

What would you all recommend for this application?
128x128dustin_collman
Honestly the biggest improvement you could possibly make to that system is to trade out all the surround oriented stuff for good two channel, and add a slew of subs. The improvement in sound quality for movies will be astounding. The improvement in bass will be even better. 

Granted this will be a sacrifice because his system will then be much, much better than yours. Sometimes to be a good friend you have to do stuff like that. In the long run, when you hear how much better his system is you can follow in his footsteps. 

Side benefit, you both wind up with money in your pockets after the upgrades. Don't get that too often.

https://systems.audiogon.com/systems/8367

The idea of HT and high end audio being separate is a box they put you in. You just have to think outside the box.
I forgot to mention he is using 2 M&K 350 subs. The bass is enough to rattle the neighbors windows. 
The B&K stuff was voiced very warm.  Does he want to stay with this sonic signature?  Or does he want something more high resolution with more excitement and snap in the highs?  What is the budget?