Preamp - Processor for 2 channel music

I've owned Classe SSP-25, Cal Audio Labs SSP-2500, Citation 7.1, Theta Digital casanova, Krell HTS7.1 and the Krell HTS7.1 is the most musical HT processor, especially in 2-chan stereo.  It achieves 90% of my Krell KCT pre-amp.

The Parasound Halo Integrated or Ayre AX-5 Twenty integrated might be a simple solution that would pair well with your Aerial 7Bs.  You might be able to find either used at a price substantially below MSRP.

db

Take a serious look at Marantz AV8801. The analog section is very good

The Anthem AVM-60 may work for you.
I'm using a HEGEL P4a mkii pre-amp with my Aerial 10T's for 2ch.

i've been useing my marantz 4300 4 chanell reciever as a tuner preamp connected to my mcintosh mc602 power amp. untill 2011. the 4300 was getting old so i was looking for a mcintosh pre amp tuner, but they only had the older looking units. so i was looking at the mcintosh home theater units. i bought the mx 132 because it was the least expensive that matched my amp.