If you are on a tighter budget, you can buy an quality integrated amp that has an HT bypass. This will provide your analog (2-channel) pre-amp, and 2 channels of amplification. Then use your HT receiver for digital processing, tuner, bass management(for LFE/sub) and 3 channels of amplification.
I'm using an Arcam Alpha 10 int. amp, and a Denon AVR-3300 receiver. This setup works great. I purchased both used for $1200($800 for Arcam, $400 for Denon). I demoed a $2800 list B&K HT receiver in my home, and the $1200 system listed above absolutely smoked the B&K for 2-channel music, and was comparable for HT. Nothing satisfies like saving big bucks!!
I'm using an Arcam Alpha 10 int. amp, and a Denon AVR-3300 receiver. This setup works great. I purchased both used for $1200($800 for Arcam, $400 for Denon). I demoed a $2800 list B&K HT receiver in my home, and the $1200 system listed above absolutely smoked the B&K for 2-channel music, and was comparable for HT. Nothing satisfies like saving big bucks!!