Help! Receiver or preamp? Im overwhelmed...

jsbranham7 - I think you may have mentioned some options that might really work for you.  For starters, that Marantz SR7012 just might do it for you.  We happen to have a den w/ Paradigm Studio 100s up front, Paradigm Studio center & surrounds, and an SVS sub.  We've gone both ways w/ an external amp - B&K or Odyssey.  And right now it's neither of them - we're bi-amp'ing the front channels directly from the 7012.  Got that SR7012 on an absolutely super deal (so that may help a little to make things sound darned decent to one of us).  Anthem is good stuff, too - that's prob. my next choice (but it'll never beat the price for our 7012).  If you can get such a deal or try 'em either could be highly recommended.

With your budget, I would recommend a used Marantz AV processor. I've had one for about 6 years, never had a problem. A used Anthem, a better piece, is over your budget.

I’ve had several Marantz ‘s they held up great I only got rid of them because I decided I want to separates. You can always find a good deal on one used

@jsbranham7 

I noticed you said 75% music 25% HT. I am sort of going through the same thing I have separates Integra 80.3 processor and Sunfire Cinema Grand series II 5 channel amp. Thinking of going back to a new receiver also something in the middle to catch the 25% HT but a looking for a used higher end integrated amp to get the 75% music i am getting more interested in. So some choices.
Nad 758
Denon x4700
MarantzIntegrated amp Music 75%
Audiolab 6000ANad C 338
Cambridge Audio CXA 60

I have a Rotel prepro, and if you like the sound you’re getting now I wouldn’t recommend Marantz, which has a very different sound profile with a softer and less detailed treble but a fuller, richer midrange.  If you’d like to keep the basic sonic traits you have but just improve it across the board I’d go with Anthem.  There’s a used MRX720 on US AudioMart for $1600 (I’d offer $1300 as Anthem just introduced their new models) that would provide better 2-channel performance but also much better multichannel processing and room correction.  It’s a bit over your budget but a nice step up if you can swing it, but if not you can probably get a used MRX520 for around $1000 but I think is a step down in their ARC room correction.  Personally, if I’m you I’d buy the MRX720 as it’ll give you great all-around improvements and I think you’ll be thrilled.  Anyway, FWIW and best of luck.