Pre/Pro with 2 MCH analog inputs plus..

You may want to look at the Sony TAP-9000es - all analogue and 2 sets of 5.1 inputs. Audio Refinement has one (Pre-5) that is analogue and I *think* has 2 sets of inputs. Both of the above mentioned should be found for <$1K. I had a similar search a little over a year ago and ended up with the Audio Refinement Pre-2DSP. It only has 1 set of 5.1 inputs though and is a pre-pro but all analogue (no digital processing of the incoming source signal). I have SACD but would like the second 5.1 input for DVDA so I don't have to buy a universal player. For now though I am content with SACD until more "must have" titles are released on DVDA.

Denon 5800 or 5803.

Thanks. I have already reviewed the Sony and the Pre5. The former is not a pre/pro and the latter has only one MCH input (and ain't a pre/pro either). Looks like an external switch may be necessary.

Oh, no receivers, please.

KR4,

Sorry, I didn't catch the qualification of needing a processor:-) I would love to find exactly what you are looking for! If you find it, let me know. I have been wishing for that type of flexibility for about 3 years. I ended up with the Audio Refinement Pre-2DSP but am limited to only 1 set of 5.1 inputs - having to stick with my current SACD but no DVDA (don't want a univ. player either). Right now, I am looking strongly at the Bel Canto Pre-6 but would be relying on the internal DD/DTS processing of the DVD/SACD player I am using since it isn't a processor. I would have to forego Pro-LogicII and some of the other music surround modes. I miss the days when manufacturers made "processor only" units that didn't function as preamps. Then you could stick with a HQ multi-channel pre and swap out (or upgrade) the processors to accomodate newer technologies!

Consider a multi-channel preamp. The EMM-Labs Switchman 3 (if you don't mind a wired remote) or the new Audio Research MP1 come to mind. You get 3 or more sets 5.1 multichannel analog inputs from multiple sources: SACD, DVD-A, and even your SS-Processor. The MP1 has a processor pass-thru with unity gain, allowing a home theater processor to control overall system volume (by connecting a pair of amps/speakers to the processor output you achieve 7.1!). Just received my Audio Research MP1 Friday but haven't had a chance to set up yet. Sources include the following: Lexicon RT-10, Sony C555ES, Denon 5900 into Lexicon MC-8B. All speakers active: ATC ASL100 (3), ATC ASL 20 (4) and ATC C-6 LFE. Ray.