Amp/Preamps vs. High end AV Receivers

Well, I’m still using my TX-NR809 in my bedroom system. The thing is a 40 pound beast, and I’m not sure you can get much better audio quality with any of these newer AVRs.

And 4K capability is not really required in an AVR if you get a UHD Blu-ray player that has dual HDMI outputs, one for video and one for audio. You connect the audio one to your AVR and the video one to your 4K TV. This is what I’m currently doing with my Denon AVR-X5200 and Oppo UDP-203 in the family room system.

I’m also using a separate power amp for the front L/R channels in both the bedroom and family room systems.

Edit:  I see you added that you want to go to Dolby Atmos.  That WOULD require a new AVR or Pre-pro. 

I always like to get a mid level AVR that has analog pre-outs for plenty of channels, then add an separate power amp.  In the OP's case, that could be a 5-channel amp.  It will, however, cost some money for decent interconnects.  Like some others, I cannot see paying $4K for a high end AVR like that Rotel.  You can get a Denon AVR-X6400 for $1,500, and it has plenty of pre-outs.   Add an Emotiva A-5175 for $799, and you are up to $2,300.