Integra Research RDC-7.1 Review

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Integra Research RDC-7.1

Integra Research RDC-7.1

Summary

  • Product Name: RDC-7.1
  • Manufacturer: Integra Research
  • Performance Rating: StarStarStarStar
  • Value Rating: StarStarStarhalf-star
  • Review Date: June 30, 2004 20:00
  • MSRP: $ 4000 ($5250 as configured)
Specifications

Processing
Exclusive Apogee Master Clock
THX Surround EX 7.1 Processing
Dolby Digital EX and Pro Logic IIx
DTS, DTS-ES, DTS Neo:6 and DTS 96/24
Dolby Headphone and Dolby Virtual Speaker
Dual -32Bit DSP Chips for Main and Zone 2
VLSC-Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry
Non-Scaling Configuration
PC Set-up Application Available via Ethernet and RS-232
Wolfson 192 kHz/24-Bit D/A Converters for all Channels
Composite and S-Video Upconversion to Component Video

Miscellaneous
THX Ultra2 Certification
New High Current Power Supply
Individual Crossover Adjustment (40-150 Hz, 10 Hz Step)
Detachable Power Cord
Rigid Aluminum Panel (Front/Side/Top) and Stabilizer Bar
Elegant Aluminum Faced Remote Control with Scroll Wheel and LCD Display

Firmware Version
Master: 1.03
Link 1.01
Net-Tune 1.00
HDMI 1.00

Connections (including optional cards)
8 Balanced XLR Outputs for Stable, Noise-Free Signal Transfer
2 Assignable Sets of 7.1 Multi-Channel Preouts (A/B)
Total of Three Subwoofer Outputs (3 Assignable)
High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI v 1.0) - 2 in/1 Out for HD Video
ILink (IEEE1394) Digital Input for DVD-Audio and Super Audio CD
Ethernet for Net-Tune Streaming Audio
Three Zone Multiroom Capability (Main, Zone 1, Zone 2)
Bi-Directional RS-232 Port
Five Assignable 12V Trigger Outputs
Independent IR Outputs for all 3 Zones with 12 VDC for IR Receiver
12 Digital Inputs
(6 Optical/6 Coaxial/12 Assignable)
4 Digital Outputs
(2 Optical/2 Coaxial/4 Assignable)
4 Component Inputs
(4 Assignable) / 2 Outputs
9 Audio Inputs / 5 Outputs
AES/EBU Input for High End CD/DVD Transports
Hardware and Software Upgradeable Chassis


Pros

  • Phenomenal Performance & Fidelity
  • Excellent Trigger Options
  • HDMI & I.Link
  • Attractive Fit & Finish
  • Upgradeable Architecture

Cons

  • Notch Filter Erroneous operations
  • No Auto Setup or Room Correction
  • HDMI limited to Version 1.0
  • No Analog Video Up-conversion to HDMI
  • Noisy SACD performance via I.Link
  • DTS erroneous operations
  • Pricey

Introduction

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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