Thanks for the response. Separates would undoubtedly be a better way to go but I do have an issue with space. Also, I've found it hard to find separates that meet my needs quite so well, especially for running 'zone 2' speakers (I have outdoor speakers I run from the receiver).
As well as the additional features of the sr-9600 (lip synch, dolby headphone etc) I'm particularly interested in the HDAM-2 output modules on the 9600, which are used in all Marantz high-end disc players. In contrast, I believe the 9300 uses fairly cheap op-amps. This could conceivably make the 9600 a better sounding preamp for use with external power amps?
As well as the additional features of the sr-9600 (lip synch, dolby headphone etc) I'm particularly interested in the HDAM-2 output modules on the 9600, which are used in all Marantz high-end disc players. In contrast, I believe the 9300 uses fairly cheap op-amps. This could conceivably make the 9600 a better sounding preamp for use with external power amps?