AV Receiver Underpowered?

Unfortunately I don't have the pre-outs with the AVR 1908. I don't think I am able to add to this am I? I was assuming I had to replace, just not sure if I need power or it is the "sound" of denon I am missing. It just has always sounded somewhat muted compared to my old onkyo.

I checked out the Emotiva site and saw they partnered with Sherbourn. They have a Sherbourn PT-7020A on sale. It has the pre-outs so I could "add" an amplifier later.

Anyone have experience with the Sherbourn? Would it be a decent upgrade to what I have or should I look to buy something just being released. (I think it's the 1.3hdmi, not sure what 1.4 brings to the table.)

Hi Kriskdf - I spent some time reviewing the manual and searching. I confirmed the EXT IN. ports are not pre-outs on my AVR 1908. I need to replace it.

All -

I don't mind doing separate pre and amp. But am stupid about a comparison between it and an av receiver. Or an amplifier of other order. I would like to spend around $1k.. which is yes budget minded.

any drawbacks with this setup
UMC-200 600.00
UPA-700 80X7 500.00

an XP-5 is another 500.00 and less two channels. It has more watts, but I am quite clueless on the numbers. I am not sure if the 80watts would be sufficient for my application or not.

I like the idea of the separate amplifier as the standards have changed fairly quick in the last five years.

Thanks for everyone's comments. Ultimately I am looking to move into my new house and would like to finally setup my system with the speakers mounted on the walls, rather than sitting on end tables. Was hoping to move the electronics to the basement. I have little money left over for this project.