Marantz AV7706 11.2Ch 8K Ultra HD AV Surround Pre-Amplifier with HEOS®

I own the Marantz 7702 and would recommend the 7706 for both HT and 2 channel music. I have compared it to four different dedicated two channel preamps thinking I could improve two channel performance. The Marantz was my preferred two channel preamp as well. I use the XLR connections. If you want to get the best performance get the paid upgrade to Audyssey ($199) and the calibrated mic. Night and day difference and I prefer it over ARC room correction. You can see my 9.2.8 HT in my profile. I have a setup for both atmos and auro-3d.

I also have an Onkyo receiver in the man cave, I prefer separates for the best SQ.

Don’t have the 7706, but do have the 7704. The MultEQ app is phenomenal. I have multiple settings/preferences that can be saved and uploaded for different sources and/or material (streaming, Ultra HD Blu-Ray, sports, etc.). Settings include crossover, dynamic EQ, speaker levels, high frequency roll off, midrange compensation, frequency range cutoff for room correction. I would assume this is offered by Denon since they own Marantz and also utilize Audyssey if I remember correctly.

In terms of sound, great separation of instruments and effects. Aesthetically, I also think it’s one of the better looking HT preamps on the market as well. 2-Channel is my love, but in reality I use my living room 5.2 more than 80% of the time with the spouse - so to me, worth the money given the amount of use. 

To clarify:

I have an entirely separate system for 2 channel stereo/music.

I am just looking for an HT receiver with all the current theater codec and video standards that will last me another 8-10 years as my onkyo has to this point.

My initial pass with regard to features/specs and price led me to the Marantz.

But, I don’t know what I don’t know, which is the point of asking here.

Answers and suggestion from the combined wisdom of users of this forum regarding an HT unit is my goal..

i appreciate the replies.