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Yamaha RX-V863 AV Receiver Overview

The RX-V863 is the top of the new mid line receiver offerings from Yamaha. It sports HDMI 1.3 inputs, internal decoding of all the latest HD audio formats, 1080p analogue video upconversion, and two subwoofer outputs. All the bells and whistles include and HD radio tuner, 7x105 watts, and no less that 17 surround modes. All that and more for just under $1k!

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Emotiva Reference Theater Series IPS-1 Amplifier Review

From 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: Emotiva Audio RSP-1 Stereo Pre-Amplfier Review
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.

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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.

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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.

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Editorial: Attack of the Clones (Processors)
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.

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Pro Review: Parasound Halo C2 Processor Review
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.

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Pro Review: Cary Cinema 6 AV Processor Review
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.

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Pro Review: Emotiva DMC-1 Preamp Processor Review
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.

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Pro Review: RE Designs Audio SCPA 1 Preamp Review
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...

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Editorial: Anthem Statement D1 First Look
by Gene DellaSala — last modified July 04, 2004 20:00
There is quite a buzz building about the Anthem / Sonic Frontiers latest addition to the Home Theater A/V SSP (Surround Sound Processor) world with their new $5000 Anthem Statement D1 SSP. Audioholics forums alone has experienced a good deal of activity about the Statement D1 with some even comparing it to the latest high end receivers and processors.

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Pro Review: Integra Research RDC-7.1 Review
by Gene DellaSala — last modified February 12, 2007 11:57
Everyone is familiar with the old saying "too much of a good thing is NOT a good thing". But how many of us actually live by that saying? I am one person that usually doesn't, always demanding more - especially when it comes to performance cars and A/V equipment. With that said, I am always looking for the "ultimate" A/V processor, or at least one that can compete with today's excellent high performance super-receivers. In the $2-3,000 price range this is a tough find and can even be difficult at $4000 when factoring in all of the latest surround formats, A/V switching, bass management flexibility, etc.

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Pro Review: Integra Research RDC-7 Processor Review by Steve DellaSala — last modified September 15, 2003 20:00
Pro Review: Sunfire Theater Grand III Review by Steven DellaSala — last modified July 14, 2003 20:00
Pro Review: Aragon Soundstage Processor Review by Gene DellaSala — last modified June 01, 2003 20:00

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