Sorry, I didn't realize you were specifically talking about the pre-amp portion of the pioneer.
Not all pre amps are created equal and I agree with what you are saying for sure.
Id say perhaps my experience with pre amps outside of the big box store is limited (spanning equipment from 1970 to 2005: rotel, pioneer, denon, Yamaha, Bose, Kenwood, Marantz, Harmon kardon, onkyo).
Id say for pre amp purposes the pioneer has been my favourite. I bought a Marantz SR7005 but after 3 days took it back and opted for the pioneer
I've only heard amazing things about the anthem. I was also eyeing up the emotiva pre amp at one time. Any experience with them?
