First pre/pro and hopefully last

I have the HTS7.1 and would heartily reccomend it, as it also meets your criteria listed...

I hadn't heard of the SSP75 being discontinued...but I figured it would be on it's way out soon, as it's been around a while. that works fine for me, I'll be able to get one used cheap!!!!

Forget the "pre/pro" as you will never be satisfied with its two channel performance. It just does not work. Instead, get a used Citation surround processor and buy a separate dedicated two channel preamp (hint, consider a passive).

I have been considering a 2 channel with a HT pass through. I have heard the Classe has the best analog pass through, but Arcam is very close, and it has a shielded phono area in the unit for audiophiles. Completely separated from the rest of the system. Theta of course is one of the best out there, but $ 15,000 is not in my budget. My budget new or used is $ 5,000. I read a review that compared Classe against Arcam AV8, and Classe nudged out Arcam in 2 channel, but did not have the detail / punch or features of the Arcam. There you are you can't have your cake, and eat it to.lol :) I will sacrifice a little of one to get both without having 2 seperate systems, and without getting overly complicated. Is it possible if you have an analog pass through to get a better DAC then what is in the processor to get better 2 channel music? Just an idea.

Analog pre-amps don't have a DAC like pre-pros do, you must use your cdp's analog outs. You can of course add an out-board DAC to use with your cdp before the pre-amp.

In your $5,000 price range there are many pre-pros that are also very good pre-amp...thats the reason they cost more. Only you can decide if any of them are good enough for you. If you decide not, then you will need to insert a two channel pre-amp into the system.

A good two channel pre with HT pass through is a great option but somewhat over rated..Why?, because it limits your choice to those pre-amps that have this option. If you like one of these pre-amps then there is no problem. What if you don't like any of these pre-amps?

In that case, you can use any pre-amp you like. You will only need to set it's volume control at 12:00 O'clock each time you watch a movie. This is the old (other) pass through method. I have used a very good passive pre-amp along with my Sunfire in this way and the results were fantastic.

By the way, you did not mention your source components? I would hope that they are of very good quality. Also, my recomendations are based on your stated price range and subject to change with price range. Many, many options out there.

Dave