pre-amp and amp for 1K

Thanks, I think the route I would like to take would be the one Mezmo just talked about. As far as seperates or integrated I haven't made up my mind. Probably depend on what deal I run across. I've been thinking of a tube pre-amp and a SS power amp.

Yes, my Yamaha RXV-995 receiver has pre-outs.

So as I understand it, I'm looking for either an integrated with a processer loop or a pre with a processer loop and an 2-channel amp.

does the Rogue Audio 66 or 88 have a processer loop or HT bypass?

I would love to get the Rogue, heard a 88 magnum with a McCormack amp hooked up to the same speakers I have. That's what sold me on the speakers.

However, with a Ski Trip and a wedding comming up, I would rather buy used. I'll spend $1500 or a little more if it's buying me an amp that went for $3000 new a couple of years ago, but $1200 for a new Rogue pre. Hell, I can get that anyday.

right now I'm thinking of finding a used Rogue pre-amp and matching it with a good amp a few months down the road. I called Rogue and they said could add a HT-passthrough for $100. Also said alot of people had matched thier pre-amps with Odyssey amps with good results.

Made an offer on a used Rogue 99 pre but guess it wasn't good enough because I never heard back.

I guess you can see the $1K budget isn't firm, but I'm looking for value here. I'm sure the Tempest is a great integrated but I think seperates may allow an easier upgrade path in the future.

The one thing in the back of mind though is I'm not sure of the difference in the various HT-passthrough/processer loop designs. I bet the Rogue would have better 2-channel sound but I'm wondering if I wouldn't be better off with a 5-channel pre like new Audio Refinement Outlaw Audio 950.