Integrating 2-channel Audiophile Amplifier Setup with New 7.1 Receiver

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I currently have two separate systems co-located together - a high-end 2-channel audiophile system with a low-end 5.1 surround system (Panasonic XR-57). For my next upgrade I would like to accomplish two things if possible: (a) upgrade my current 5.1 system to a 7.1 system that has all the video bells-and-whistles for my Panasonic TC-P58V10 plasma and LG Blu-ray, and sounds great, plus (b) if possible, incorporate my two channel system (Pass Labs amplifier and VMPS speakers) into the mix. I understand that I need to find a receiver that has pre-outs, but I am not sure of the options here. It would be nice to incorporate my two high-end speakers into the surround setup, while still having them available in the two-channel setup. I am thinking about upgrading the Panasonic XR-57 to the new Sherwood Newcastle R-972 With Trinnov Optimizer, but I am not sure if this would accomplish what I want. Any advice out there?