Looking for new AV Receiver

For future options, try to get one with Front L and Front R rear output jacks.

Those are preamp, volume controlled by the AVR with all other channels.

Purpose is to have a ’better’ front 2 channel music system that doubles for Video use.

The AVR’s Front L and R Preamp Outs can go to a future preamp/amp or integrated amp with a Home Theater Bypass, so your ’better’ front amp is still used for the front speakers, volume controlled by the AVR

Crutchfield is a quick source for comparative info, and you can see magnified views of the rear panels.

Seems Marantz and Yamaha tend to include front pre-outs, some Onkyo Integra line have it, but standard Onkyo's do not. Seems Denon's do not have front pre-outs

of course do your research and compare prices elsewhere, but easy info at Crutchfield, even info on discontinued models if you are considering used.

I checked their black friday AVR's, none have front pre-outs

My Onkyo RZ630 receiver I use in the man cave is unbeatable for the price. With your budget you could step up to feature rich 840:

NewEgg also has that monster RX840 for $1,099

I guess if I were in your shoes I would try to separate the surround processor and amp as a first step if you want to increase sound quality. I would put $1K+ into a surround processor (Best Buy 18 month 0% financing) and get a $1K 5 or 7 channel separate amp. That should give you a significant bump in sound quality.

You can see my HT under my UserID. I long ago invested more in my surround system than the TCV. It has so much been worth it. We currently have a 77” Sony OLED… the surround system and amp are much more costly and have really added to our enjoyment for decades.

I find Best Buy’s 18 month 0% financing to be really useful when in your price range.