Do you use a preamp in your HT system to improve sound?

To be honest I was having a hard time deciphering what your point was exactly. I'm still not sure. Maybe I need more caffeine.

Even the hi end processors are limited in their SQ.

i use a low end tube preamp and like its influence on hq sound. 

Yes, they are limited in their SQ. So limited even a low end tube preamp is an improvement.

What I been saying for years. A cheap stereo anything is an improvement on even the most high end multi-channel processor. The obvious solution to improved HT sound: ditch the multi-channel processor.

Simple. Logical. Affordable- and actually works.

The preamp (C8) in my HT system doesn’t effect the HT sound at all. I have a new McIntosh mx100 processor. The processor only offer balanced in/outs everything is super clean and natural. I think matching manufacturers helps too. 

Raysmtb1, nice lookin processor and makes sense with mac amps.

Millercarbon,

i need to go both ways, 2 ch and multi. 
 

need center for voices when doing ht.  A good thing. Mains still do really well.  Any chance u could be more open?