Scott and others, currently I have a 5.1 setup with a seperate 2 channel pre with HT bypass. I have seperate amps (7 channels worth) and am getting another 2 speakers so I can get a 7.1 setup. I currently use a Pioneer Elite receiver for HT and DVD-A passthrough. I really like concert DVD's, but I only like a handful of DVD-A titles. I would like the ability of SACD/DVD-A passthrough, but don't want the hassle and cost of buying 12 more IC's and the Sony P-9000es pre.
Like a lot of folks, I'm just trying to figure out if I want a receiver for SSP duties @$1K, a full blown pre/pro @$4K, or a 2 year old full blown but older technology for $2K.