Best equipment to use with Gallo Speakers?

A receiver is an all in one package. It has the digital to analog decoder or processor that decodes the digital audio into 5/6/7 channels of audio plus the .1 subwoofer channel. It also has the pre-amps controlled by the volume and amplifier power for all channels. A receiver also includes a tuner for AM/FM radio.

The next step would be to buy a pre-amp processor and separate 5-channel amplifier. Some pre-amp processors do not have a tuner for AM/FM. This can be broken down futher to a combination of mono, 2ch or 3ch amps. a reciever is a good value as it is all in one package. Separate components usually provide higher performance.

If you are looking for high value in the receiver market B&K is a good way to go. It's not mainstream, so used prices are low in the aftermarket. Made in the USA, and higher quality than most any Asian made receiver.

Arcam would be another good choice.

There are many ways to go with processor and amp combos. You might start a new thread, "best pro/amp combo under 3k". I would suggest that you also consider a Gallo Ref A/V center speaker. This speaker carries 50% of the content load in a home theater. L/R 20% each and the surrounds the last 10%. You can see how important the center is and how many systems are just running big R&L Speakers.

Right now the whole industry is shifting towards HDMI connections for HD video and audio switching. To get this in a new processor means big $$$ right now. Many very expensive products are being dumped in the market because they only have component video connections. The good part is that you can get a good deal. The bad side is you are already out of date. A new wave of set top boxes and DVD players will all be coming out with HDMI outputs. Don't go too overboard on what you buy I would say. If you go with a pro/amp combo, you still have a good amp for years to come and only need to upgrade the processor later. Where as the whole receiver will be near worthless.