Here's another option. Pick up a high-quality stereo preamp with a pre/pro pass through(this allows you to use the stereo preamp for 2-channel listening but seemlessly use another pre/pro or receiver with preamp outs for surround stuff). This will benefit in 2 major ways: 1) For critical 2-channel listening your signal won't be passing through all the electronic hoopla contained in a pre/pro and 2) With the introduction of DVD-A and SACD pre/pros may have to change once standards are set(i.e. digital connection, surround formats, etc.), so you may want to use what you have now or buy one of the cheap Marantz/Denon A/V receivers with preamp outs to hold you over till the dust settles. This way you can wait out the format wars but be assured you have the highest quality 2-channel performance in the meantime and going forward. Some stereo preamps offering HT passthroughs are: Adcom GFA750, McCormack RLD1, Sonic Frontiers(tubes), Rogue(tubes). If you really care about critical 2-channel listening and are worried about future compatibility issues with the new formats I think this is absolutely the best way to go, for what it's worth. Best of luck.
Tim
Tim