Is there any benefit going with a pre-amp and an axiom amp vs going with the traditional receiver with pre-amp outs and an Axiom amp?
It's about THD+N, S/N and your environment. It does no good to pay top dollar for a pre/pro that is dead quiet only to have it drowned out by ambient noise.
It's also about the best EQ software. Audyssey XT32 is very good but it can't compete with Dirac Live. The EQ implementation is also important but you have to dig hard into the manuals to understand the configurable parameters available to you.
Finally, it's a lifestyle choice. For many, going pre/pro makes them feel better even though there may be no difference in measurable performance between their pre/pro and a receiver.
