Featured A/V Processor Reviews
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Onkyo TX-SR805 AV Receiver ReviewThe Onkyo TX-SR805 represents the current pinnacle of value at its price point. It sounds good, decodes all the latest HD audio codecs, sports a large power supply, has an impressive feature set, THX Ultra2 certification, and Audyssey MultEQ at a price well below what the competition offers. This high level of value is not just limited to this particular model; Onkyo has spread value and features across their entire product line. Onkyo has resurged into the market as a serious player once again and clearly upped the ante with the TX-SR805. Highly recommended. |
Emotiva Reference Theater Series IPS-1 Amplifier ReviewFrom its excellent sonic characteristics, to its no-nonsense build quality, fit and finish, Emotiva has once again demonstrated via the IPS-1 that you don’t have to break the bank to get quality electronics that rival many of the more well known brands at a fraction of the cost. Your ears and your wallet with certainly thank you. |
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Recently Reviewed A/V Processors
Pro Review: Denon AVP-A1HDCI 12CH Home Theater Processor Review
by Gene DellaSala — last modified June 17, 2008 10:15
by Gene DellaSala — last modified June 17, 2008 10:15
The Denon AVP-A1HDCI represents bleeding edge technology that only a select few manufacturers can compete with regardless of price. This processor truly is a master of all domains. It’s not cheap to own this combo set from Denon, but such is the case with statement pieces and first implementers of new technologies. From its Realta video processing engine, to its sophisticated Audyssey room correction, top notch construction and component usage, you’re getting Mercedes level performance and refinement at Acura prices. Your high end audio snob friends may snicker at this system, especially since they likely spent 2-3 times more for hollow boxes, but I suggest humbling yourself by saying nothing. You don’t want everyone driving the same car you’re driving, do you?
First Look: Classe SSP-800 Preamp/Processor
by Tom Andry — last modified May 18, 2008 19:33
by Tom Andry — last modified May 18, 2008 19:33
One doesn't have to be interested in Home Theater too long before they come across the name "Classe." And from an aesthetic viewpoint alone, the name is apt. They make some of the best looking gear out there. Classe is taking processors to a new level with the release of their new SSP-800 - a 10 channel preamp/processor that promises bells and whistles that you didn't even know you wanted.
Pro Review: Emotiva Audio RSP-1 Stereo Pre-Amplfier Review
by Tom Andry — last modified August 31, 2007 11:22
by Tom Andry — last modified August 31, 2007 11:22
Emotiva's RSP-1 is a 2-channel pre-amplifier that operates almost solely in the analogue domain. You won't find any digital audio inputs, video inputs or outputs, and you won't have to worry about what version HDMI you have. For all of you true audiophiles that are only interested in 2-channel, this is the unit for you. The RSP-1 performs exactly as promised. Considering the low price of the Reference Audio Series, Emotiva has taken the dedicated high end 2-channel rig out of the hands of the ultra-rich and placed it squarely within reach of most enthusiasts. It looks audiophile, it sounds audiophile, it just doesn't cost audiophile.
Pro Review: Emotiva Reference MMC-1 AV Processor Review
by Gene DellaSala — last modified May 30, 2007 22:20
by Gene DellaSala — last modified May 30, 2007 22:20
What do you get when you cut the price of the DMC-1 by almost 67% off its original retail price, upgrade the cosmetics and add HDMI functionality? The Reference Theater Series MMC-1. For those seeking solid performance, with a high WAF, the Emotiva MMC-1 A/V processor paired with the matching IPS-1 7CH power amp is a killer combo. Combine this with Emotiva’s excellent customer support and aggressive tradeup deal on their processors, and you’ve choice for your next separates solution just got that much easier.
Pro Review: Sherbourn PT-7000 Processor and 7/2100 Amplifier Review
by Gene DellaSala — last modified January 05, 2007 04:22
by Gene DellaSala — last modified January 05, 2007 04:22
It is obvious by the latest product offerings from Sherbourn that they understand the current industry trends, and as a result they have managed to intelligently design high performance products that fit quite nicely. Enter the PT-7000 7.1 Channel Preamp/Processor (MSPR: $1500) and the 7/2100 7CH 200wpc Power Amp (MSRP: $2850). This combined duo retails for $4350 and weighs in at a whopping 140lbs! At this price point, your alternative options are flagship receiver such as those from Denon, Pioneer Elite, B&K, etc, or separates from other manufacturers such as Outlaw, Adcom, Rotel, etc. This is an interesting price point to compete in as it is where a threshold is crossed between flagship home theater receivers and entry level separates.
Editorial: Attack of the Clones (Processors)
by Gene DellaSala — last modified January 04, 2007 18:35
by Gene DellaSala — last modified January 04, 2007 18:35
We were surprised (OK, not really) to discover that cloning has made its presence in Digital Preamp Processors. These processors were originally co-developed by East Tech and Cirrus Logic for Outlaw Audio for OEM purposes to later sell to Audio Hardware Manufacturers with customized chassis, faceplates and logos to accompany them of course. Eastern Tech in an Asian OEM which manufacturers the design and specifications of these processors. The DSP is CD4932-63L which provides decoding for Dolby Prologic II, and all the varieties of Dolby Digital, and DTS including EX, and DTS Neo:6 and Cirrus Logic’s own Extra Surround as well as their Triple Crossover.
Pro Review: Parasound Halo C2 Processor Review
by Steve DellaSala — last modified December 07, 2006 06:42
by Steve DellaSala — last modified December 07, 2006 06:42
Parasound introduced the Halo C2 and C1 in 2002, and both have been highly regarded among many audiophiles and professional installers not just for sound quality, but also the many unique features they offer. Features such as BNC video connections, video signal pass through (which allows video signals to pass through without the C2 power being on), customizable Aux channels, automatic calibration (which included automatically setting speaker distances and volumes), easy to use set-up menu, firmware upgradeability, software programmable all controlled by a sophisticated Universal MX-700 Remote Control (including a "Side-Kick" Remote), are simply not common place for many processors.
Pro Review: Cary Cinema 6 AV Processor Review
by Christine Tham — last modified January 14, 2006 19:00
by Christine Tham — last modified January 14, 2006 19:00
Cary Audio is company probably better known for their SET (single-ended triode) power amplifiers and vacuum tube pre amplifiers (and lately, some remarkably fine sounding CD players). But it seems Cary wants to be considered in the highly competitive home theater market as well, releasing a line of DVD players, processors/preamplifiers and multi-channel power amplifiers.
Pro Review: Emotiva DMC-1 Preamp Processor Review
by Clint DeBoer — last modified May 01, 2007 05:06
by Clint DeBoer — last modified May 01, 2007 05:06
The DMC-1 is a beautiful looking processor with competent performance to satisfy even the most critical audiophiles. If you want to enter the realm of high-end audio and experience separates at prices much lower than its competitors, take a hard look at the DMC-1 and matching Emotiva MPS-1 multi channel amplifier.
Pro Review: RE Designs Audio SCPA 1 Preamp Review
by Gene DellaSala — last modified July 23, 2004 20:00
by Gene DellaSala — last modified July 23, 2004 20:00
A couple of years ago I received a phone call from Dan Banquer (Chief Designer for RE Designs Audio) about the series of articles I have written on the format implementation issues with DVD-A and SACD for consumer audio. I was expecting to hear complaints about my articles like I have heard from a few manufacturers, but instead Dan complimented me and agreed with my recognitions regarding the shortcomings...
Editorial: Anthem Statement D1 First Look
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Gene DellaSala
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last modified
July 04, 2004 20:00
Pro Review: Integra Research RDC-7.1 Review
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Gene DellaSala
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last modified
February 12, 2007 11:57
Pro Review: Integra DTC-9.4 Processor and DTA-9.4 Amplifier Review
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Clint DeBoer
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last modified
January 30, 2004 19:00
Pro Review: Integra Research RDC-7 Processor Review
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by
Steve DellaSala
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last modified
September 15, 2003 20:00
Pro Review: Sunfire Theater Grand III Review
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by
Steven DellaSala
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last modified
July 14, 2003 20:00
Pro Review: Aragon Soundstage Processor Review
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by
Gene DellaSala
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last modified
June 01, 2003 20:00
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