<font color='#000000'>I understand your point, and it is well taken. I too, have always been a separates kinda guy. My issue now with separates is cost and simplicity, as well as sound. The separates cost a good bit more, not to mention the additional big dollars for quality interconnects!!! Plus, with the price decrease on the AVR-507, it is much more affordable.
Actually, what I didn't mention previously was that I really did an A/B/C test, which also included the B&K Ref 50 Processor and 200.7 Power Amp. I could not tell a difference between the AVR-507 and the pre/amp combo until it was turned up to around +10 db (which was getting pretty dang loud - much louder than my wife would ever let me listen before divorce papers began to fly....
), and at that point, the receiver started to run out of gas while the amp continued to shine. For the extra +-$2000 plus interconnects, it becomes a matter of swallowing my pride and understanding that I'm getting old - thus, the receiver wins this battle.
Also, B&K makes it a point to allow one to upgrade their products. For example, you can upgrade the prior model 307 to a 507 for about $500, and everything is upgraded except for the video processing. Oh well, you can't have it all.
Thanks guys....
Pat</font>