If you want to save a few bucks you could skip the $2K - $3k processor and buy a receiver with preouts like the Onkyo tx-sr800 for the going street price of $800. It has a THX Select certified 7.1 processor plus all the other bells and whistles. The HK 525 is another great choice for a processor because of its Logic seven/vmax processing. Pair that with a seven channel 200 watt sherbourne amp, $2K (or other 7 x 200W comprable amp) and you have great processing and power to match. Spend the money you save by getting the Onkyo / HK on throw rugs and other various room decour. Here is a review of the Onkyo sr800 where the reviewer used it as a stand alone processor.
