Just tried hi-end Rotel pre-amp (DSP) and amp.
The pre-amp is a DSP with no tuner. The amp is a 7x100W class-d implementation.
What works: high level SPL is not a problem. Sound is as good as sonic-impact 15 WPC, but honestly, not that much better. SI is a really good amp, and deserved the hype.
What does not work: Cannot get a direct pure signal to the speakers as if I use the Rotel DAC, it also goes through Rotel signal processing. I cannot use JUST the DAC.
If I send full range signal to the speakers, I cannot integrate a subwoofer (my subwoofer does not have jacks, just RCA inputs).
If I send a crossed over signal to the speakers, the lowest I can set it to is 40Hz. That's fine. I can send a full range signal to the subwoofer and use the crossover in the unit.
Sub is a decent B&W.
Configuring a surround system is a PITA! Better to just get stereo and run it as stereo. Incorporate dual subs by wiring them directly at the speaker posts (ie. in parallel). Everything gets full range signal.