EXPERTS: Intg or better amp to improve 2 ch in HT?

If auto calibration made it sound better I'd understand the point but I'd rather have the $ spent in the sonics. A simple PN meter will do the job, once set up, it's done. That is where the 350 choose sound over function. I wouldn't change a thing.

Yes, I was suprised too but the Arcam does compete and then some. There is some good print out there on the technology used to keep it as clean as it is in 2CH, pretty neat stuff. It's a stone cold bargain. I have the option to do just what you are doing but found the 350 does both jobs better than the combo options which cost more. Just sold my Unico and the 350 is a good notch above it in sonics, no question. It's quieter, has more bass definition, more focus and a sweeter top end. The B100SST was more resolving but at the expense of musicality which makes no sense at all as it has to be about the music first.

The Krell KAV-400xi is a good choice for a robust-sounding & powerful Integrated Amp. with "Theater Throughput" for HT use. The KAV-280p/-2250 would be even better with the N803s, delivering lots of power which the B&Ws love. Your budget should cover either option.

I suppose it depends on your priorities and $3-4k budget. If 2-channel takes precedence over HT, then I would say go for either option 1 or 2. If you are mostly on movies, option 3 might be more appropriate.

There are lots of good integrateds around these days, and judging from your preferences for an upfront, detailed and vibrant sound, most of the integrated amps mentioned above are excellent choices except the Classe, if you were referring to the CAP-151(it's slightly warm but have great soundstaging). I would be careful though on the Bryston B100-SST at it may be slightly underpowered in driving your N803's.

If you are going for a 2-channel power amp, you would need a 2-channel preamp with HT bypass since the preamp section of the Pioneer receiver won't cut it. I believe you can still consider this option within your budget.

I have heard many good things about the Arcam AVR-350 receiver but I would suggest that you listen to it first if possible. I have owned the Arcam Alpha 10 integrated amp and am quite familiar with their line of integrateds although I do not have experience with their receivers. The Arcam house sound, to my ears has always been clean and detailed but a little sterile to my tastes. If you are looking for punchy, upfront and dynamics, I believe there are other units that do better. Well, to each his own.