Hi dancastagna,
I’m afraid there are just too many options, combinations and permutations of pre/processors and amps for you to have a definitive, singular solution. Tom’s advice will certainly help narrow the field, but in the end, I think you will need to audition as best you can the variety of amps and processors to see which one best suits your taste in music and movies.
When I decided to move up from the Anthems, I found that I preferred the more upfront presentation of the Brystons compared to the laid back attitude of the McIntoshes. And there is enough power and synergy from the amps that the music created with the Bryston/Thiel combo just sounds great to me despite the fact that the 28B amps don’t double down from 8ohm to 4ohm. There have been several recommendation from members here as to brands with which you can begin your search. While this can be a huge inconvenience, I find that the journey can be part of the fun...at least before you have to part ways with your hard-earned money!
