Best AV Processor for 2 channel

This only works well, however, if your preamp volume control can be set to the same point every time you use your HT system. Otherwise the levels for the LF / RF speakers may not match the others. Ideally you'd have a preamp with either a HT bypass input, or a precise, repeatable detented or digital volume control.

The Majority of Power amps have both RCA and XLR inputs , with a toggle switch depending upon which you want to use. So you could easily have an anlog pre using the XLR, and a processor or reciever feeding the RCA's . Just have to flip the switch.

I posted this same question in another thread since I too am going through the same "tire-kicking" episode.

What do you all think about the McIntosh MX 119 and the MX 135? They supposedly incorporate their C 45 Pre-amp into these bigger pre/pros.