You need a 7 channel AVR with 9 or more pre-outs and the ability to process 9 channels. The Denon 4200 can do this. I'm sure there are others but none of them are going to be what I would call inexpensive.

 

OK so in that example I would need the Denon 4200 AND an external amp? Looks like the cost would be similar to a 9 channel receiver.
If I decide to shop for an amp is there something specific I should be looking for? I'm not even sure how big of an amp to get.

 

I'm very very new to home theater. I am interested in setting up a 5.1.4 Atmos system. From my understanding I need a 9 channel receiver. However as you know, there is a significant price jump between a 7.1 and 9.1 system. Is there a cheaper way of doing this. I've read a couple articles where someone has used an amp for the last two channels. Is this possible? Can I use an amp with any reciever to get that setup? I was looking at a Marantz NR1606 because I can get a deal on it. But I don't know if there is a way to "expand" it.

Help and advice is appreciated.

No. The only 2015 7CH models that can expand to 5.1.4 are the Denon X4200W and Marantz SR6010.

 

Jd cant he still find a X5200 to solve the problem as the pricing on that is the same as the 4200 and has 9 channels. Assuming there are still some out there?

 

I'm a cheap SOB and I've got a super cheap way to get 5.1.4.

Get a Pioneer SC85/87 off of Ebay. I got one for 600 bones and it does 9.1/5.1.4/7.2.2. It does Dolby Atmos, but not DTS-x.

 

I may consider that since I'm trying to save some cash. I know having DTS-X is more future proof, but I think that would get me by long enough until I have a significant amount of DTS-X content. I assume no HDCP 2.2. But again, I think I could wait on that.