Are the really pricey HT Pre Amps worth it?


Looking at a pre amp upgrade.  Are the real expensive pre amps better than a Marantz AV8805?  With prices $12k plus for even used high end pre amps here, are the extra $ really worth it?
Currently have a 11.2 Atmos config.  Marantz AV8802a, 2 monoprice (ATI) amps, Oppo, Sony 4K projector, etc.
old_marantz
No.  When I upgraded my HT processor for 4K I went from the Marantz AV8802 to the AV7704, going down one range in the Marantz lineup.  No difference in sound quality at all.  If there's some specific feature you need or connections you don't have, maybe it's worth spending more, but I have started to look at them as almost disposable appliances.
I traded up my marantz 8802a set up as 7.2.4 recently for a Trinnov Altitude 16. I have thoroughly enjoyed it and happy with the upgrade. Is it worth it? Yes If you are willing to pay for better sq. But it’s a lot more $ so it is question of your wallet and priorities. The Marantz was very good so you should be happy if you keep it.  If you have the cash and want more of whatever you are looking for, you will be very happy with the trinnov.
Try to ignore millercarbon as he is typically very negative and condescending.

@big_greg - Well, you pretty much did a lateral or step-down move as you said.  I'm not surprised that you didn't hear any difference.  In actuality, the 8802 is a better processor because it has a larger main power supply and the audio output stages are all on individual boards with better isolation and localized power supply capacitors.  The only thing that the 7704 really gave you is some extra/newer bells and whistles.

@old_marantz - I have had the Marantz AV8804 in my system and was very impressed on what it did.  It's pretty much the same as your AV8802, but with some newer features.  It had very full sound and very powerful impact.  For what it costs, it's an excellent device.  However, it is "voiced" as a  Marantz, which means it's on the warm side and has softened high frequencies.  If you are looking to get something with more high frequencies and more excitement, an upgrade/switch can get you there.  

Like lxgreen indicated, a Trinnov Altitude 16 would be a significant upgrade in clarity and excitement of sound.  However, a used McIntosh MX-160 could be another possibility.  Both would have more clarity and high frequencies than your Marantz.
How is it "better" if it doesn't sound any better?  It's still a  whole lot of compromise stuffed into one box. 

I'll admit my answer was a bit glib in a way. If my main focus was home theater or I had a dedicated home theater, it might matter enough to go all out on the processor, but then again if that was the case I'd probably be over on AVS Forum, not here.  A bit of a matter of perspective.