2-channel pre-amp and dedicated processor?

Treyhoss, I want to route the typical digital signals: DD, DTS, Pro-logic. A Processor won't provide high-end audio performance: it can't be a substitute for a good pre-amp, and I don't expect it to be. I would like it to be outside the music signal path, in an ideal setup. I just want it to decode. Does this help? I'm on a learning-curve, so my reply may not be sufficiently technical.

Thanks for your help.

J.

Thanks to everyone! I know this is an issue discussed on the forum and trust me I have done searches for threads on it.

Jdodmead: I think I understand what you are saying. I want the surround processor to just decode the digital signals, provide no ampification, and not be a replacement for a pre-amp. In DVD playback, the '80s pre-amp will "talk" to the surround processor and pass the "results" to the amp driving the front left and right speakers.

Sogood51: I think we are agreeing on the config. I just don't know if the two-channel pre will actually work in the "unity gain" -- hope so. One other question: if I'm in a DVD playback situation, and need volume controlled by the the surround processor, can I:

-buy a really inexpensive "a/v receiver"?
-not use any of its amp. functions (since I will have a separate 3-channel amp for L&R rears, and center)?
- just use it for its decoding ability?

Thanks to all of you for your patience, as I absorb this. My config, if it works, will allow me to have the best of analog and digital, and keep the digital side turned off when I'm just listening to 2-channel audio.

J.

Very clear! Need to decide whether this plan, while good in theory, may be a big pain in the a**, in terms of timbre matching, volume control, etc. There will also be more hands on the wheel than mine in the room, when it comes to HT.

J.