Re: Best $1000 (or cheaper) Musical Receiver (Pre/Amp)?
I can vouch for Marantz. I have the SR6003 powering my Sierra-1 NrT's with a 12" Rythmik sub and the sonics are very nice!
Having said that, if you can exceed your budget slightly the Outlaw 975+amp would be worth a look. I have not owned any Emotiva gear but I regularly consider adding one of their amps to my setup. I have not, mainly because the Marantz has been more than adequate so justifying the purchase is tough. Going with separates will allow you to upgrade your power later on if you need/desire to do so.
Ed
* Sierra-2EX's W/V2 crossover upgrade
* (2) Rythmik F12's
* Parasound Halo P6
* Audio by Van Alstine DVA-M225 Monoblock Amps
* MiniDSP 2x4HD For Sub calibration
*World's Best Cables Canare 4S11 speaker cables