ZiggyZoggyOiOiOi, there are a great many people out there doing exactly what you are thinking about doing .

Not all but most rec. have respectible processing power built into them . H&K utilizes Cirrus Logic (crystal) chips albeit different than the ones incorporated into the 990 . That still says alot about their build quality .

I myself was using a Yamaha RXV2500 as a pre/pro in my system until my brother talked me into loaning it to him . When I first started to use the Yamaha as a pre/pro . I noticed a substantial difference in sound quality right away with a more robust fuller sound that had a wider range of dynamics to it .

I can only think it will improve and not hinder your sound quality by utilizing seperate amps and bypassing the internal amps of the rec. .
It will take alot of the grunt work off the rec. and allow it to preform better .

Actually, the Cirrus chip used in the 990 is the same one that HK has used for a number of years, and they still use it in a number of their products, including the HK AVR 7300 flagship model. More recent HK receivers make VERY good use of the TI DA 610.

However, the CS 49400 used in the 990, the HK receivers and many others is a very good processor. THe differences come in how it is implemented, and each brand has their own spin on that.

Thanks for the heads up podboy I didn't know they still used CS chip in the less than $500 range receivers .

E.S.Ob:

As far as I can determine, HK still uses Cirrus DSPs in all of their receivers except the new 635 and 435 models, where the TI DA 610 is used.

Thanks, Jeff.. I'll keep that in mind

Thanks, E'pin... I'm aware that many people use receivers as a pre/pro with Outlaw amps, I was just curious if anyone had any direct experience with the HKs.

At this point it doesn't matter - I'll get to experience it for myself. I couldn't pass up the chance to pick up a refurb AVR235 (from Harman direct on Ebay) for $260. Among its many features is an AV Sync Delay, which I will likely need for this system, since I'll be running an upconverting DVD player (Denon DVD-2910) through 30' of component and/or DVI cable to a front projector. And when/if my needs change it will be easy to swap out that receiver for whatever the technology of the day is.

Best of luck ZiggyZoggyOiOiOi . I know it will sound better as a pre/pro .

For some strange reason I have this incredible urge to down a beer swine everytime I type your user name .

Thanks... I'm sure I'll enjoy it