Where is the $1000 7.2 channel Pre-Pro? You know it can be done.

[Stanny1]

Just take a mid-priced AVR, strip out the weak amps, maybe take out the useless chip AM/FM tuner and streamer, and you got it. But no one wants to do it. Sound United could easily make one. For those of us with external tuners, streamers and DACs, this is a no-brainer. That's all I need to replace my old Outlaw 975 (1080p) and use my Outlaw 5000 amp. I only use 5 channels. Why invest $1500 to $4000 on a Pre-Pro that will be obsolete in a short time?

 

[dolynick]

Good question.

Emotiva is the only one that got close, but it's modestly priced processor didn't get very good reviews.

I picked up my Anthem MRX-540 8K mainly because it would function as a ~2k (CAD) AVP with 5 channel output with bass management and room connection. There were a couple cheaper ~1500 (CAD) options but a little more bought me solid pre-spec performance and some other nice features. The AVR makers seem to love to leave out the output/passthrough sections on their more budget receivers and push you up into the higher price ranges too. It is a little frustrating.