Costco had the Pioneer 711 for $200 recently. I was sorry I'd already spent more on a receiver - it should meet your pal's needs very nicely.
I WOULD trip on pre-outs. It's nice to upgrade a step at a time... That way you're not splitting the budget when you go separates... you buy all the amp you can afford - then later a nice expensive preamp - then maybe you realize the preamp is an expensive volume control and go back to just a receiver with extra balls added... LOTS of fun!
Good luck anyway... but I would not buy a receiver with no preouts at any price if I were you or your friend.
I WOULD trip on pre-outs. It's nice to upgrade a step at a time... That way you're not splitting the budget when you go separates... you buy all the amp you can afford - then later a nice expensive preamp - then maybe you realize the preamp is an expensive volume control and go back to just a receiver with extra balls added... LOTS of fun!
Good luck anyway... but I would not buy a receiver with no preouts at any price if I were you or your friend.