best match for Macintosh MC352

Mofi, actually I have read in two publications where Apple (you're right about the mfg) aquired the name from McIntosh laboratories. I see that this is in direct conflict with the link you provided. So it is now a quandry, I see that I face many sleepless nights. However I appreciate you not correcting my attention to the spelling of the Audio Company vs. the Model of the Apple computer. Now go listen to your system Mr. Anti-McIntosh:)
Finnman, I would say at this point for the 8000.00 investment with which you are seeking to complete this project. One the MC352 will be a great addition and if you use the current Anthem Amp as a center and surround amp, leaving 2 of the channels idle. And then add a 2 Channel pre-Amp that has Unity gain which will be labled also at HT pass thru you can easlity do that with a used MC352 and a Used ARC LS26 if you want tube. Or the MC352 and an Ayre K5-xe solid state pre-amp. That was my original choice for this task but decided to try tube for a differnt sound as I was already using solid state with my MX135. I also think you could just use the AVM30 and the MC352 and let the AVM30 do both 2channel and HT. That will be easy as you set up your sources. But I have learned that having a seperate 2 channel pre-amp with the pass thru allows me to have a 2 channel system and just turn off the pre-pro and the 5 channel amp along with any source comp. connected to the pre-pro e.g. DVD etc.
There are many choices out there for the 2 channel pre-amps, and you may consider some of the McIntosh products such as the C2300 or C46.
I bought the ARC mainley because I wanted to try something new. I have been a McIntosh guy for years. And my local dealer threatend my life if I'd bought a Mcintosh again.
Not to mention MoFi was influential with his Anti-Mc encantations. But as he knows, it came with many challenges.
And one final not since I drifted for your original concern. I think you will find the MC352 will awaken a new sound in your Def Tech speakers that will reveal the maximum performance they can offer. I had Infinity Kappa 7's when I bought my 352 and I was amazed at what 350 watts of McIntosh power did for them. I quickly learned that I had better speakers that I thought I had and kept them longer than I had planned.

Thanks Theo. I am the inexperienced idiot here. Failed to say that I have the MC352 and love it!!! It sounds great at 3 watts or 300!!! I can listen to this set up for hours on end. What I am wondering, if I wasn't clear, was will I see a difference if I dump the Anthem for , say, a MX120 or MX136?

As an owner of the MX135 and previously MX134,MX132,MX130and a C39 I can attest that each generation sounds better. You can buy the MX136s relativly cheap now that the MX150 is about to hit the shelf.
The MX120 is basically the same as the MX135 but a few less inputs and a very little different processor chip.
I have a freind with the AVM20 and he tells me that he thinks the Mcintosh sounds better. I think you will be making an improvement. My bias opinion of course.

If you do not want to invest into the Mc proc as suggested which is very likely a good to great match, there are dedicated processors out now which possess outstanding audio credentials these days.

the Marantz and Parasound proc & rec were just reviewed together, anc compared the preamps of each to quite higher priced preamps, ranging upwards of $20K. the review says each held their own.

I've heard the Anthem gear and there are more musical processors out there. having HDMI 1.3A is a bonus with these newer procs.... and I'd not let their lower prices than Mac gear fool you.

Blindjim, when you say "dedicated processors" are you referring to a processor that is not a pre-amp? I have not seen anyone since Rotel, and Mcintosh had some back when the majority pre/pros were Pro Logic. I have been looking for a dedicated processor. I Am toying with buying the ARC MP1 since it has 3 sets of 6 channel inputs, I can use my current Denon 5910ci and buy a Blu-ray player. But I will need something to process the digital signal from my Directv reciever into 6 channels. The only solution I have been coming up with was a receiver. I used to have a McIntosh MAC3 then an MSD4, but eliminated them when I sold my C39 which was ProLogoc only. You mentioned the Marantz is that a receiver or a stand alone processor?
I think the ARC MP1 makes the most sense in the long run because your not investing in a new pre-pro everytime Dolby and DTS come out with a new codec.