I have a mixed 2 channel / HT setup. I use a Herron Audio VTSP-360 preamp for 2 channel. None of the home theater components are engaged when I listen in 2 channel. A home theater processor wouldn't hold a candle to the VTSP-360.
The VTSP-360 has home theater bypass, so I can use my main speakers and subwoofers and my monoblocks that I used for 2 channel in the home theater system also.
Best of both worlds, unless you have room and budget for a dedicated home theater and a dedicated 2 channel system.