New Anthem AVM 70 and MRX 740 difference in processing

I said my front speakers are Khorns, the in-ceiling/rear are Episode and Klipsch RP600m (surround) which are MUCH less efficient than the front two.  Those are the ones I said I wanted the multichannel amp for.  

While it's very hard to a/b test any of this, I do feel the external amp offers a bit more dynamics and maybe separation but I'm not entirely convinced it's that great of a difference.  It certainly makes cranking the heights/rears much easier to match the big Khorn.

But one reason I'm looking at the Anthem is because I love most all of their products and use their STR preamp in my 2ch setup.  I love the ARC and also love the web interface option on the new units.  

I've found annoying quirks with every receiver I've owned (many Marantz's, Onkyo, and now a Marantz AV 7005 processor). 

When I purchased the Anthem MRX720 I chose that instead of the AVM 60 solely because I wanted a Zone 2 for my backyard speakers and I already had a Parasound 5 channel amp. I did want the better AVM60 but it did not offer that option.

If I were you, I would try the 740 on its own, then if you want a bit more, hook up your external amp. I love my surround system with the 720/parasound amp. I am also looking to add an integrated amp to this system but hopefully can find one that is one or possibly two ticks better than the Anthem str preamp. Not easy, but still looking. 

But as for surround sound, I love it as is. 

Forgot to mention I added an Anthem str amp for the L and R speakers.

I have not had the chance to sit down and audition the Anthem AVM 60 or 70 versus one of their MRX receivers.  I think in your situation you would probably be fine with the receiver. I'm a big fan of 2-ch music though so personally, I would want to go with the superior DAC's in the AVM and use my Aragon amps for the power.

@t-mac thanks for your input.  I'm primarily 2 channel too, but I have another system for that, so I'm not worried about the 2 channel ability of the receiver/processor.

I'm sure I'd be "fine" with the receiver but @soix acts like there would be a major difference so I'm still torn.

To be clear, given the level of your system I think you’d be fine with the MRX520 or the RX-A2080, and again I’d recommend you save 1000 bucks and get the Yammy.  The problem was you implying the AVPs are way overpriced and may be just repackaged AVRs minus the amps without any credible evidence.  If you’re gonna suggest something like that here you should provide facts and not hearsay from a couple dudes on some crappy website.  Peace out.