HTMAN,

I'm in the same situation (meaning I desire excellent two channel listening), although I�m currently satisfied with my 990. Two-channel audio (music) mode remains a weakness of all these processors. I've researched, seemingly without end, until I came to the conclusion that right now is not a good time to be purchasing a pre/pro. Apparently a number of manufacturers will be revealing their new machines, this fall. The Japanese are now also beginning to chip away at the market (see the need); Marantz and Denon ($7,500), for example. The good in this is that via the competition, pressure is increasing to build towards that ideal machine, for reasonable money. The down side, I think, is that current flagship models, such as the Anthem D2, will quickly become dinosaurs (meaning it�s likely not wise to overspend on a current processor).

In direct answer to your question: I couldn't find a single pre/pro that is said to have fantastic two channel (music) mode, not without spending a lot of money (which is ironic, given you can spend a lot less, on a two channel preamp that will outperform it).

Speaking for myself, I'm keeping my 990, probably for a couple of more years, with the hope that by then, a processor will exist which will also play well in two channel mode. If not, then, I�ll split the systems in two, one for HT and another for music.

Good luck!

John