That's kinda how I figured it worked. After all, my current signal chain is AVR -> Audyssey EQ -> SVS Amp -> PC12. So why wouldn't I just swap out and make it AVR -> Audyssey EQ -> Pro Amp -> Dawgcrusher
Great minds think alike.
That is why I will only own externally powered subs, instead of internally powered subs.
Great thing about externally powered sub is that it is easier to change amps if you want to. Also saves you a lot of money on amps in some cases where manufacturers charge $1-2K for the internal amps. If you need more power, you get more power. If you don't, then it is also your choice. And if you are worried about needing peak limiters, the Crown amps and other sub amps also come with peak limiters and other EQ/DSP if you like.
There has been debate about the EQ capability of AVR/pre-pros vs. Sub.
So it comes down to the $1K sub's EQ vs $1K AVR's EQ, $5K sub's EQ vs $5K pre-pro's EQ, $10K sub's EQ vs $10K pre-pro's EQ.
Or what about a $1K sub's EQ vs a $2K AVR? Or $1K sub's EQ vs a $3K pre-pro's EQ?
Do you like the sub's plate amp's EQ or Audyssey vs Trinnov vs ARC, etc.?
If you believe that Trinnov or ARC or Audyssey XT32 is the best, would you let your sub perform the EQ?
