Doug,

How would you rate the Yamaha as a pre-only (i.e., compared to the 970/990)? The reason I am asking this is I have a 2-ch amp (and would get a 3-ch amp for surround) and use the Yamaha as a pre-only or route the front l/r to my 2-ch amp use the yamaha amp section for the other 3-ch ...

From what I have read so far, Yamaha could do this job quite well. Do you feel this setup could give the 990 a run for its money?

-Ravi

Doug's comparison was based on the Yamaha acting as a pre-amp. He runs a pair of Outlaw Model 755 amps, which he's had for a while now. He has a good conclusions page that sums up his experience with all three as pre-amps.

I just caught your responses on AVSForum ... that gives me the (quick) answers I was looking for! Thanks.

Ravi,

The 2500 does work rather well as a pre/pro. However the 970 will give you better sound for music and the 990 will give you better sound for both movies and music in my opinion.

Yep, that is what I gathered after I re-read the comparison and also went through the AVSForum discussion! Thanks for the follow-up!!