I agree with ZD542, buy a decent pre-processor, and get a good 2 channel pre amp with unity gain (HT/Cinema) pass thru and then if budget permits a multi channel amp and a 2 channel amp. Since the processors go out of date so frequently, you can update them as needed but maintain the two channel side of your system as the core. I have been doing this for years and love the ability to listen to two channel and leave the HT side completely off.
Looking for Feedback
I am upgrading my music/HT system. Here are a couple of options: Cary Cinema 12 processor with Simaudio Moon Titan 5-channel amp vs. Classe SSP-800 processor with CA-5200 5-channel amp. All are previously owned. I will probably be using Salk SS7 speakers for L/R and a Salk HTC7 for the center. Ratio is 60/40, music to HT. And a good percentage of HT is for live concert DVD's. Love to hear informed takes on this. Thanks!