ROBERT P
Hi,Rob. Why do they have to be THX certified ? Having a Preamplifier certified is no indication that it will sound better than an uncertified one.Actually the THX process can degrade the sound as there is a certain blending of the rear channels with the front. Also your listening room has to be THX set up (whatever that means).THX specifications for preamplifiers are not important nor an indication of quality.For example.an amp. can be built with loosely regulated power supplies and achieve high dynamic headroom and meet THX specifications.In that case ,big power and headroom numbers are achieved at the expense of clarity,detail,smoothness and control over the speakers. You want the best amp for the money, TXH Certified or not. If you want the sweetest, warmest, and most unfatigueing sound available ,get a tube preamp.You have no idea what you are missing out by using a solid state preamp. I know you have your mind made up to get a THX certified Preamplifier because you have been told it is the only way to get the propper results from a Surround Sound Preamp.But just remember that the Preamplifier is the heart of the system. Any small error by the preamp,such as noise,distortion or harshness ,will be multiplied when the Power Amplifiers make a bigger copy and send it to the Speakers. EDIT..I am sorry trying to talk you out of one .It is none of my business .You specifically asked for advice on getting one Whether i like thx certified equipment or not doesn't matter.I am more of a sound enthuisiast than a video one.I forgot to ask you your budget but i think the one below is about the minimum price for a good preamp processor. EDIT.. Rob is this what you are after...The Integra DTC -9.8 Preamplifier/Processor RRP $1,600..