As far as 9.2 goes I can think of several 9 channel AVRs all under 3K. Take a look at Denon, Onkyo, Pioneer, and Yamaha. Onlyo's top two AVRs even have pre outs for 4 subs.
I have 2 REL's that I use for front main's left and right that makes the fronts full.
They are tied into the front's and it is difficult getting the right balance.
There are 9.3 and 7.3 out there BUT they are in the 10k range.