I'm currently going through the same process. Downgrading HT to go back to stereo. I bought a stereo preamp with surround inputs (which you say you already have, right?). Then I just bought an inexpensive Denon receiver ($375). It has preamp outs, I'm going to run the F/R and F/L pre outs on the receiver into the surround L and R inputs on my preamp. This should allow me to use my mains as the front channels in HT. I say should, because the Denon doesn't arrive until tomorrow, 4/1.
You should be able to do the same thing with your processor loop. Just make sure you buy a receiver with preamp outputs.
That high end HT just became a nightmare for me. Stereo is so much easier, and 80% of my listening is 2 channel anyway. It became too expensive and counterproductive to try to go SOTA in 6 channels. I spent more time scrolling through menus and running test tones, than listening to music.
Good luck,
John
PS: The receiver I bought is a Denon AVR-1802.
You should be able to do the same thing with your processor loop. Just make sure you buy a receiver with preamp outputs.
That high end HT just became a nightmare for me. Stereo is so much easier, and 80% of my listening is 2 channel anyway. It became too expensive and counterproductive to try to go SOTA in 6 channels. I spent more time scrolling through menus and running test tones, than listening to music.
Good luck,
John
PS: The receiver I bought is a Denon AVR-1802.