Integra DRX-R1.1 and DRC-R1.1 11.2-Channel Atmos AV Receiver and Processor

Integra released details of their two newest flagship AV products, both of which have some pretty forward looking features.  The DRC-R1.1 11.2-Channel Network A/V Processor and the DRX-R1.1 11.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver are the first in their respective categories to incorporate 4K HDBaseT circuitry which allows for the transmission of 4K/60fps/ 4:4:4/UHD/HDR-10/Dolby Vision content up to 100 meters away over Cat 5/6/7 wiring. As part of Integra's reference-grade Research Series, the- DRC-R1. and the DRX-R1.1 will be available this March and will also support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats up to 7.2.4 channels; multi-zone processing; wireless technologies such as Chromecast built-in with Google Assistant voice control and DTS Play-Fi multi-room hi-fi music streaming; and hand-selected components.  Each model also includes 8 HDMI in, including 1 front,  main out, and sub / Zone 2 out, with support for HDCP 2.2, 4 K / 60 Hz, Dolby Vision™, HDR 10, HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma), WCG (Wide Color Gamut), extended (sYCC601, Adobe RGB, Adobe YYC601), and BT.2020 video pass-through.

DRC-R1.1 11.2-Channel Network A/V Processor

We really liked the build quality of the DRC-R1.1 from the copper screws used to lock modular circuitry blocks to a double-skinned insulated frame, additional internal bracing to enhance the products anti-resonant characteristics, to the floating circuit boards, high-quality anti-resonant aluminum face-plate, copper screws, premium input and output connectors. Even the 11.2-channel balanced XLR audio pre-outs are gold plated. From what we've seen of it, the DRC-R1.1 processor seems to be built up to Audioholics standards. On the technology side the DRC-RC1.1 has 32-bit SHARC DSPs (x3) and Asahi Kasei AK4458 384 kHz / 32-bit high-performance digital-to-analog converters. separate DACs for Zone 2 for HDMI IN 1-5, SPDIF (PCM), NET, and USB sources, and Zone 3 for NET and USB Sources.  Bi-directional IP and RS-232 port for advanced home automation control systems are onboard, as are two IR inputs / one output, and three programmable 12V trigger outputs with adjustable delay.

The DRC-R1.1 is THX certified to provide you with an experience "as the director intended" in the cinema. THX spends 40-60 hours testing over 1500 data points for AV Processors; ensuring that the DRC-R1.1 is capable of meeting rigorous audio and video performance standards for reference level, low distortion playback and includes THX Loudness Plus technology to bring out intricate details at lower listening levels. Of course, the DRC-R1.1 can also decode Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats for immersive 3D sound. The Dolby Surround upmixer expands audio content that is not mixed in Dolby Atmos for playback on any speaker configuration, including overhead speakers- giving you a better audio experience even without a Dolby Atmos soundtrack.

For those of you interested in whole audio Integra includes DTS Play-Fi  technology. Play-Fi is a widely adopted whole home audio technology that allows you to stream from your smartphone, tablet, or PC to DTS Play-Fi speakers and devices throughout your home. Like other whole home audio solutions, Play-Fi allows you to stream a music playlist throughout your entire house while entertaining or simply enjoy your favorite artist or album in a single room. In addition to Play-Fi, the DRC-R1.1 has Chromecast built-in for Audio and Apple AirPlay technologies built in. Stream virtually any audio from a smartphone, tablet or PC to your home theater for powerful sound.

The DRC-R1.1 is a full bandwidth receiver (up to 18Gbps) 4K/60Hz (2160p), 4:4:4 color space, Dolby Vision and HDCP 2.2 support ensure that this Integra receiver is ready for the UltraHD Revolution. Crystal clear video playback that offers 4 times resolution of 1080p as well as support of the newest High Dynamic Range (HDR) format to provide vastly enhanced realism by enabling greater detail for both the dark and bright parts of an image.

For room correction, Integra uses AccuEQ.  AccuEQ conducts two measurements- one to set the level, the other to set the distance and crossover for ALL speakers, including the subwoofer. In the second round of measurements, your room’s sonic characteristics are evaluated. Using this information, AccuEQ is said to be able to prevent standing waves from forming by adjusting frequency response. You can choose to include or bypass EQ measurement for front left and right speakers, and choose to automatically or manually set the EQ. Further, you can save your own manual EQ settings into three available presets. The new AccuReflex technology aligns the phase of upfiring "height" speakers with the sound coming directly from your other speakers. Any delay is resolved so that everything arrives at your ears at the same time. The result is said to be a cohesive reproduction of object-based soundtracks.

For custom installers the DRC-R1.1 includes system integration connectivity such as RS232 and IP control with support for 2-way communication with 3rd party home automation systems. A pair of infrared (IR) inputs and an IR output should make for a clean, reliable installation and allow pass-through of IR signals to control other devices connected to the DRC-R1.1, such as a TV or Blu-ray player. Three fully programmable 12 volt triggers can be used to raise/lower a projection screen, power on/off an external amplifier and open/close the drapes all with the touch of a button! Optional rack mount kits for all full size models provide a clean, finished look when installed in racks and cabinets.

DRX-R1.1 11.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver

The DRX-R1.1 is a flagship THX Certified Select network receiver with 140W per channel (8 ohms, 20 Hz–20 kHz, 0.08% THD, 2 channels driven, FTC) and all the latest 4K video support and multi-channel audio processing present in the DRC-R1.1.  It also shares the superior build design that we saw in the DRC-R1.1 by using copper screws to lock modular circuitry blocks to a double-skinned insulated frame, additional internal bracing to enhance the products anti-resonant characteristics, floating circuit boards, multiple 32-bit DSPs and DACs, plus a custom shielded power supply and shielded amplification, all of which harmonize to isolate signals from noise. In addition, the DRX-R1.1 is also THX certified and can decode Dolby Atmos and DTS:X content.

The DRX-R1.1 has Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry (VLSC)  which compares the input signal to the outgoing signal and filters out pulse noise. Thus allowing original signal to be regenerated so that the audio signal is the same as what was captured on the recording- faithfully and accurately. Integra claims this results in the DRX-R1.1 producing a virtually noiseless audio signal across all channels. The DRX-R1.1 also features Powered Zone 2 and 3 to bring audio to speakers connected to the receiver in a second and third room. Zone 2 and Zone 3 Pre/Line Out are included for use with an outboard amp. It includes a Zone 2 DAC for HDMI Inputs 1 through 5, Coax and Optical Inputs (2-CH PCM), Network functionality (including all network streaming services), and USB audio sources. There are maximum power and power on volume settings for the Main Zone, Zone 2 and Zone 3 to further customize your listening experience and help get the best performance out of your speakers. The DRX-R1.1 also includes a Whole House Audio Mode- which allows you to turn on and synchronize all audio zones with a single button push of a single button.

Receiver or Processor, Which One?

Integra has put a lot of forward thought into these two new receivers along with some top quality hardware. So whether you choose the DRX-R1.1 11.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver or the DRC-R1.1 11.2-Channel Network A/V Processor, we're sure that you'll be enjoying your Integra products for years to come. 

Do you own any Integra gear or plan on buying one of these? Please share your experiences in the related forum thread below.

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