Multi channel preamps

Sony TA-P9000ES, used.

For 5.1 pre-amp, check out the Margules Daleth from Margules Audio's Magenta line.

Another interesting multi-channel option could be the Linar Model 10 5.1 channel Integrated Amp. I would love to hear one of these!

Enjoy,

TIC

Both good suggestions.
The Linar looks like the closest thing.
I have heard the Sony and it is a fine processor for the money.
I'm really interested in a unit that has no internal processing though.
I think that the advent of 6.1 and 7.1 (and the possibility of more-numbers-point-one with the hi-def formats) have thrown a wrench into the minimalist surround hardware business.

Thanks!

Neither the Sony nor the Linar have any internal processing but the Linar does have power amps!