I found the Audio Refinement Pre-2DSP to have a very clean 2 channel bypass mode (equal to the Audio Refinement Pre-5 all analog pre), but have since moved to a Pass X1 for stereo, and it has a bypass for theater processor. Now I can have whatever processor I chose without worrying about its 2 channel performance. At a lower price, the Adcom GFP-750 also has a processor loop.
Best Pre/Pro for 2-channel stereo sound?
Instead of me building a new system all together, what would be the best Surr Proc/Pre to give me excellent 2 channel stereo reproduction? I will use it for movies with DD/DTS, but without very critical listening. on the other hand i want the best sound possible for 2-channel stereo/SACD. I would like to keep it under $2000 new or around $1000 used. any opinions would be appreciated.