Best Pre/Pro for 2 channel

I used to own a Classe ssp25. They go used in your price range. It was great for music, and worked well for HT. I recently downsized to a NAD receiver, which is adequate for film, mediocre(relatively speaking) for 2 channel music.
If I didn't have a nicer separate 2 channel music system, I'd be missing the Classe very much. It sounds like just the type of piece you're looking for. Only 5.1, but to me that's okay. Most filmakers haven't figured out how to use those channels, let alone a couple more! Good luck.
Spencer

I agree with Sogood, as far as movies there isnt a lot of difference between the usual suspects. But two-channel is a different story. I auditioned a lot of Processors when I was upgrading. The Bryston SP-1.7 was my pick based on 2 channel needs.

Having said that, if I had to do it all over again. I may have gone with a very nice 2 channel preamp with a theatre pass instead. I say this based on a few obvious facts. Preamps can offer more performance for the dollar, and thus be less costly to upgrade in the furure. However the "one-box" solution is nice.

If you need/want a "one-box" processor I have a few suggestions. A used Bryston SP-1 may be within your budget, or a used Classe SSP-25/30, or a used Sunfire Theatregrand (only if you can use balanced output). I havent heard the older Krell HTS's, but if they perform like the newer ones then I would put it on my list as well.

What are some nice 2 channel preamps with the theater pass option?

I like what Sbank said! Aragon Soundstage, Classe SSP25 used, Krell HTS used(only digital domain for you here really, but pretty musical that way for CD's and such...but not beatten soniclaly for DD/DTS dubties!), and similar. I think the Classe and Aragon are the great values with their "dirrect analog inputs" for 2 chanel, with 5 channel input with the Aragon! Both units for like $1300-1500 range used. Can't miss there....and all sonically pure and neutral sounding with DD/dTS!

OK, go for an Anthem AVM-2. Under $1000 used