If stereo is very important, going with an AVP can be very limiting in terms of viable options as you well know. And it may also be more expensive relative to using a quality stereo pre for the front L/R speakers and a decent AVP for surround processing and channels. Then again if surround processing and quality of those signals are just as important as stereo (or you're space constrained) I guess it could be worth the additional expense and limited choices for a good AVP. Just in case you hadn't considered the possibility of using a stereo pre in your setup. Best of luck.
Good Processor
I know this has been discussed before and have read most of the posts. However, I haven't seen one that addressed this question. For good stereo what is a better option? Going with an older high end pro like a meridian 861 version 2.8/4 or Halcro 100 OR buying a newer unit such as the Integra 80.2/3. If I purchased the Integra it would be easy to setup with little in cables given the HD audio formats. With the older units I would be processing HT in my Oppo and using the 5.1 output into the processor.