Integra DTR-80.3 9.2 Channel Network A/V Receiver Preview

For those of you that read our coverage of the DHC-80.3 processor, this is going to be a bit of deja vu. The THX Ultra2+ certified DTR-80.3 is the receiver version of that processor. For $400 more than the DHC-80.3, you get nine channels of amplification. Not just any amplification, however, but nine channels at 145 watts per channel at 8 ohms with ratings down to 4 ohms making this receiver more than capable of powering most speakers. Of course, Integra has used their vaunted WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology) with high-current power supplies and premium toroidal transformers for low-noise performance. The DTR-80.3 sports discrete output stages for all channels and an absolute ground plate as well as a push-pull amplifier design with 3-stage inverted Darlington circuitry. The front channels can be bi-amps or bridged. And if you are wondering how much weight that adds to a receiver over the processor - nearly 20 lbs (the DHC-80.3 is 29.8 lbs while the DTR-80.3 is 50.7 lbs).

The DTR-80.3 switched out the XLR outputs of the DHC-80.3 for five-way binding posts. You can connect a total of 11 different speakers to the DTR-80.3 to make switching configurations on the fly. We really like how Integra and Onkyo have switched to placing their speaker terminals in a long line across the bottom of the receiver rather than in the more traditional block. The line configuration makes connecting speakers (especially bare-wire connection) much easier. If you want to use your own, external, amps for any of your speakers, the DTR-80.3 features RCA outputs for 9.2 channels plus 2.1 outputs (yes, they include a subwoofer out) for both additional zones.

Connections abound including eight 3D/ARC/Standby Pass through HDMI 1.4a ins (one on the front) and two outs (simultaneous), three component video inputs, and a host of composite and s-video. Video can be sent to Zone 2 from either composite or component video and there are 7.1 channel inputs for integrating legacy gear. Digital audio inputs include three of each coaxial and optical and the DTR-80.3 include a PC input, RS-232 port, Universal Port (which is "universal" in the sense that it will accept any of Integra's aftermarket docks), two IR inputs and one out, and three 12 volt triggers. There are front and rear mounted USB ports which allow a direct iDevice connection.

Like all new receivers, the DTR-80.3 is networked and Integra had provided both a iDevice and Android app for control. The DTR-80.3 is preformatted for Spotify, Mediafly, Pandora, Slacker, Napster, Rhapsody, vTuner, SIRIUS XM Internet Radio, and Last.fm streaming and is Windows 7 and DLNA certified. The HD tuner means you'll have access to all your local digital radio stations. There are two main areas for improvement on the DTR-80.3 over previous modes. First is the inclusion of a number of sound processing and room correction features. The DTR-80.3 sports Audyssey's latest MultEQ XT32 room correction which can correct each subwoofer independently. It also has DTS's new Neo:X processing which is the industry's first 2.0/5.1/6.1/7.1-to-9.1/11.1 conversion technology within a single algorithm. It also has Audyssey's DSX and Dolby's ProLogic IIz giving you every possible option for height/width channels on the market.

The second big upgrade is the video processors. While all the new 2011 Integra receivers now have the Marvell Qdeo 4K upscaling video processors, the DTR-80.3 also upgrades the HQV ReonVX chipset to the new IDT HQV Vida VHD1900. While this increases performance in general including enhancement of low-resolution streaming video (something more and more common in households these days), but also allows ISFccc calibration capabilities. For videophiles and custom installers, video calibration is a huge boon as it allows optimizing of each video source at the receiver without having to add an additional box (and level of complexity to your installs).

Conclusion

Of course, there are a lot of features included in the Integra DTR-80.3 that couldn't be covered in this short preview. The key, though, is that it is packed full of just about every feature on the market along with a very powerful amp section for only $400 more than the processor only version. If you are sold on separates or you already own amps, you can save a bit by going with the Integra DHC-80.3. But if you plan on using the internal amps, the Integra represents a fairly attractive value.

For more information, please visit www.integrahometheater.com.

Unless otherwise indicated, this is a preview article for the featured product. A formal review may or may not follow in the future.