Still have my trusty MRX 300, have external amp for fronts off it. Have liked the ARC for Home theater but never liked for music listening, have always turned off for 2 channel. Lookin to get one of the newer AVR that can only adjust low end frequency and has good ability for 2 channel music.

I was looking at the new Denon X1800H, $749, with Audyssey,has front channel pre outs, zone pre outs and 2 optical in, which is my minimal requirements. Rare for a receiver this low of price to have front pre outs. How would Denon sound compare to my Anthem for Music?

Any other recommendations that would meet my needs and not blow the bank?