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Denon AVP-A1HDCI 12CH Home Theater Processor ReviewThe Denon AVP-A1HDCI represents bleeding edge technology that only a select few manufacturers can compete with regardless of price. From its sophisticated top notch A/V processing, 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? |
Yamaha RX-Z11 HDMI 1.3a 11.2 Channel A/V Receiver ReviewThe Yamaha RX-Z11 represents the pinnacle of technology in a flagship receiver. It’s ability to transform your listening space into a concert venue or mega Cineplex is unrivaled thanks to the powerful arsenal of DSP processing, and robust amplifier section for a full 11.2 channel spectacle. With its very clever power amp assignability and music mode distribution, it proved to be the ultimate multi channel / multi zone receiver capable of whole house entertainment and high definition A/V reproduction. |
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Recently Reviewed A/V Processors
First Look: Anthem Audio/Video Master 50v Preamplifier/Processor
by Tom Andry — last modified January 15, 2009 07:44
by Tom Andry — last modified January 15, 2009 07:44
Anthem showed the Audio/Video Master 50v preamplifier/home theater processor with a built in tuner and independent source selection for recording. This updated version of the AVM 50 combines A/V performance-enhancing technologies with whole-home entertainment control that makes it possible for users to direct audio and video program materials throughout their homes.
First Look: Pass Laboratories XP-10 and XP-20 2-Channel Preamplifiers
by Tom Andry — last modified January 08, 2009 19:56
by Tom Andry — last modified January 08, 2009 19:56
Pass Laboratories exhibited its high-end XP-10 and XP-20 2-channel preamplifiers which feature Pass Labs signature beveled billet aluminum front panels. Building upon the XP-10, the XP-20 upgrades to an isolated power supply to further enhance its performance. Both preamps furnish two balanced and three single-ended inputs. Like all Pass Laboratories designs, these products minimize the number of components and stages in the signal path, a design choice that is intended to reproduce the purist fidelity possible.
First Look: Parasound Halo P7 Multi Channel Audio Preamp
by Gene DellaSala — last modified August 20, 2008 02:21
by Gene DellaSala — last modified August 20, 2008 02:21
Parasound has introduced a new $2000 audio preamp designed for sound purists seeking superior low-noise performance from classic stereo sources as well as multichannel music and movies from Blu-ray, DVD-Audio, and SACD players. But where's the beef? Considering its lack of HDMI support, audio decoding, and video connectivity, one wonders if this is more or less a re-issued legacy product with minor upgrades or if it's a completely new design which just happens to lack several features commonly found on receivers starting at $249.
Pro Review: Denon AVP-A1HDCI 12CH Home Theater Processor Review
by Gene DellaSala — last modified August 31, 2008 18:29
by Gene DellaSala — last modified August 31, 2008 18:29
The Denon AVP-A1HDCI represents bleeding edge technology that only a select few manufacturers can compete with regardless of price. From its sophisticated top notch A/V processing, 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
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by
Christine Tham
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last modified
January 14, 2006 19:00
Pro Review: Emotiva DMC-1 Preamp Processor Review
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by
Clint DeBoer
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last modified
May 01, 2007 05:06
Pro Review: RE Designs Audio SCPA 1 Preamp Review
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by
Gene DellaSala
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last modified
July 23, 2004 20:00
Editorial: Anthem Statement D1 First Look
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by
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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by
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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by
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
A/V Processors
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