Cheap receiver + amp vs Expensive receiver

I'm with Bob_B. you usually do get what you pay for.

I'm hard pressed to believe one can make up for some lack in the processed or preamped signal by adding better amplification downstream.

My preffs in HT are different than my preffs in 2 ch. as well. For HT I look towards the upper half of the line up. usually settling for a step or two below the top O line receiver/processor. Same with HT amps more often than not. Mostly due to the price/cost of HT than anything else. Multiple speakers, sub (s) cables, amps, etc.

Given that, once I get used to it all, I tend to look to upgrading things, so some flexibility must be attained early on in the reciever or processor, or that road is a cul de sac

AS much as I'll want to continue to upgrade my HT deal, it carries far less priority for me. So very good there is good enough for me. Very good IMO starts up front. Regardless if it's HT or 2ch.

Just get in where you fit in with the priorities you have now… and get as much flexibility as you can while you are at it.

As receivers move up the feeding chain normally one gets more power, more inputs & outputs, and more decoding capabilities…. Added zones also increase in an oh by the way effect. Great for some, though not usually the main interest.

I also feel as the investment goes up the preamp/proc quality improves. If it does or doesn’t, getting the analog inputs & pre/proc analog outputs are a must. Regardless.

Separates can be done for $2K and provide very good results. Check out the DHC 40.1 integra multi ch proc which just came online… and is being sold & shipped now for $1200 MSRP. It has all the current features including networking via USB… I think ehternet would be better but… that’ll work.

There’s lot of amps for a grand or less which ain’t bad too.

The optimum approach always is going to be having two rigs. The constant pursuit is going to be for one all encompassing system which sounds great instead of having to do two systems.

The price tag for either always depends on expectations/desires and budget…. If patience is in force, one need not look at an initial purchase as the final outcome. Remember, there’s that Audiogon shuffle… Buy … try… sell… repeat.

Or more uncommonly around here… be OK with your planned purchase. Many aren’t just a short time after initial ownership, and why I say get as much flexibility (inputs & outputs) as possible. Later on sources can do all that decoding if the proc does not or can not.