Giving in to my weaknesses

Yeah my hearing F’d up as well. Gonna be 65 in a few months. I have 3 systems and may be downsizing to one small system sooner than later. But as jacked up as I am I can still discern my AV integrated pales in comparison to my dedicated A/B amp and tube pre on my main system.

I do remember how sweet the little Hegal Rost sounded when I demo’d that. Don’t know how Hegal units would sound for AV units.

OP, I recommend a Marantz AV60 or AV50 receiver. Start with a pair of speakers and a sub and add more channels if you like. I think a 5.1 setup is a minimum for enjoying movies. The marantz is great for music too.

I have a state of the art 9.2.8 system using a Marantz processor for movies and atmos music. I have a sony signature DAC that I use connected to the marantz for 2 channel. I have tried 3 separate dedicated two channel preamps in this system thinking it would be better than the marantz processor for stereo. Did not add anything, the Marantz is very, very good as a 2 channel preamp as well as multi-channel.

I currently use Rotel 985 preamp with a Rotel 5-channel amp driving B&W 602S2 speakers, a Paradigm center and surrounds with a SVS PSB-1000 sub.

The pre and amp are old without any current inputs or outputs. My budget is ~$5000 for new LCR speakers and avr. 

I've been using KEF Wireless II augmented by a pair of KEF KC62 subs with an Oppo 205 for discs.  It's a very satisfying setup that minimizes clutter.  Used prices seem within you budget.

I'm thinking either a Marantz AV60 or SR6015 will be the answer to my dilemma. 

I'm looking for a compromise between HT and 2-channel music with my Rotel CD and Blu-ray. I will have only the HT setup and music in one room. I think my B&W 602s2 on homemade sand filled solid oak stands with the SVS sub will cover most of my perquisites.