SD:
You've been absent, or perhaps, I have been.
I appreciated your insight, as well. I'm looking to convert my electronics (I'm very satisfied with my B&W N802s). My current thoughts are to the new BAT 6200 Amp, though the Theta Dreadnaught is in the running. Regarding pre-amps, the Meridian 861 is quite an investment, and I'm not sure it's worth it to me. The SP-1 or Lexicon's MC-12B are respectible alternatives.
For the source, I'm waiting for both a fully ROM-push into the stream (an extension of the Meridian FIFO technology) and full 1080i (perhaps a 24/192 or 24/384: Theta's new Xtreme card, once this becomes mainstream and less expensive).
Do Take Care.
Mdorsam