Budget AVR Selection for RSL 5.1.4?

I have owned and liked Onkyo,

However

This unit does NOT have front preamp out, which is needed to someday setup a separate amp (with pass thru) for the front speakers. The AVR still controls the front volume along with the other channel's volume

Denon's and Marantz usually have front pre-out, (not every model)

I find Crutchfield a good source of info,

https://www.crutchfield.com/shopsearch/AVR.html

look at the rear view, find pre-out, many only have SUB, some have zone 2 and/or zone 3, not front pre-out

this Yamaha has front pre-out

https://www.crutchfield.com/p_022RXV6ABL/Yamaha-RX-V6A.html?tp=179

I opened this to see what you are using an Automatic Voltage Regulator for....oh well.

I upgraded years ago from Onkyo to Denon 3700.  Highly recommend.  

I own a 9 channel Onkyo receiver, it is great and I strongly recommend going with the Onkyo.

Hi all,

I recently purchased the RSL CG23 5.1 set (R/L/C CG23M, CG3M surrounds, Speedwoofer 10S MKII) and 4 C34E MKII in-ceiling speakers.

I am seeing a brand new Onkyo TX-NR7100 9.2 for $800. It is a lot less money than any other 9.2s I can find, which makes me wonder why?

Would this be an OK AVR for these speakers on a 5.1.4 setup https://vlc.onl/?

I got this,...

My earlier point, the $800. 9.2 Onkyo TX-NR 7100 does NOT have front pre-out.

The $650. Yamaha, 7.2 Does have Front Pre-Out.

https://www.crutchfield.com/p_022RXV6ABL/Yamaha-RX-V6A.html?tp=179#&gid=1&pid=4

For 5.1.4, isn’t 7.2 capability enough? Are you thinking 9.2 because of resale value?

having front preout is a necessary criteria for many buyers, including me.

Sony, 7.2 Open Box, no front pre-out

https://www.beachcamera.com/products/sony-str-an1000-7-2-channel-home-theater-8k-a-v-receiver-open-box